Public Information Centre # 3 Consultation Record

GTA West

GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Planning and Environmental Assessment Study – Stage 1

Public Information Centre #3 Consultation Record

March 2010

GTA West Corridor Planning and Environmental Assessment Study - Stage 1 Public Information Centre #3 Consultation Record

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

1. INTRODUCTION...... 1 2. CONSULTATION OVERVIEW ...... 2 3. PUBLIC CONSULTATION DURING PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3...... 3 3.1 Project Website ...... 3 3.2 Newspaper Notifications...... 3 3.3 Mailing List and E-mails / Letters...... 4 3.4 Public Information Centre #3...... 4 3.4.1 Display Panels...... 5 3.4.2 Study Documents, Reference Materials and Handouts...... 7 3.4.3 Attendance / Summary of Comments...... 8 3.5 Consultation with the Community Advisory Group ...... 12 4. CONSULTATION WITH MUNICIPALITIES AND AGENCIES DURING PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3 ...... 16 4.1 Municipal Advisory Group ...... 16 4.2 Regulatory Agency Advisory Group ...... 16 4.3 Presentations to Upper-Tier Municipal Councils and Committees ...... 16 4.4 Other Meetings...... 17 5. CONSULTATION WITH FIRST NATIONS...... 19

APPENDICES

Appendix A Stakeholders Consulted – Mailing Lists Appendix B Responses to Public / Interest Group Comments - Key Themes Appendix C Current Content of the Project Website Appendix D Newspaper Notifications Appendix E Release of Problems and Opportunities Report Notification Materials Appendix F Public Information Centre #3 Notification Materials Appendix G Public Information Centre #3 Display Panels Appendix H Public Information Centre #3 Study Brochure and Factsheets Appendix I Community Advisory Group Meeting #4 and #5 Summary Notes Appendix J Municipal Advisory Group Meeting #3 and #4 Presentation and Summary Notes Appendix K Regulatory Agency Advisory Group Meeting #3 and #4 Presentation and Summary Notes Appendix L Upper-tier Municipal and Committee Meeting Summary Notes Appendix M York Region Planning and Economic Development Committee Letter Appendix N First Nations Public Information Centre #3 Notification Materials

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1. INTRODUCTION

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is working to provide for the efficient movement of people and goods within the context of the province’s Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. To support the policy directions in the Growth Plan, MTO has commenced the formal environmental assessment (EA) process for the GTA West Corridor. The purpose of this Study is to examine long-term transportation problems and opportunities and consider alternative solutions to provide better linkages between Urban Growth Centres within the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area, such as Downtown Milton, Brampton City Centre, Vaughan Corporate Centre and Downtown Guelph.

The Study is being undertaken as an Individual EA in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (the Act). The GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Terms of Reference was submitted to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment on July 15, 2007 and was approved on March 4, 2008.

Since the commencement of the study in January 2007, the following tasks have been completed: • Development of the Environmental Assessment Terms of Reference; • Development of two draft existing conditions reports: "Overview of Transportation & Economic Conditions" and "Overview of Environmental Conditions and Constraints" – released in July 2008 for public review and comment; • Development of draft "Transportation System Problems and Opportunities Report" for public review – released in July 2009 for public review and comment; and • Conducted extensive stakeholder consultation and held three rounds of Public Information Centres.

A first round of Public Information Centres (PICs) was held in April/May 2007 in order to provide the public with an opportunity to review the draft ToR, provide comments and discuss issues with representatives of the Project Team.

A second round of PICs was held in March 2009 in order to present the public with an update on the Study progress and to provide the opportunity for the public to comment on maps and displays depicting the problems and opportunities identified within the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area.

A third round of PICs was held in November/December 2009 to present alternatives that were developed to address the problems and opportunities presented at the second round of PICs, provide a high level assessment of the alternatives, and receive public input prior to the evaluation of the alternatives. This Report outlines the results of the third round of PICs and all of the consultation events that occurred in advance of the PICs (since the second round of PICs held in March 2009).

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2. CONSULTATION OVERVIEW

The focus of the third round of Public Information Centres (PICs) was to: • Present transportation alternatives that were developed to address the problems and opportunities presented at PIC #2 (March 2009); • Provide a high-level assessment of the transportation alternatives; and • Receive public input on the transportation alternatives prior to the evaluation and selection of a preferred alternative(s).

The third round of PICs was held at 4 venues within the Preliminary Study Area between November 30th and December 10th, 2009.

Prior to the PICs, meetings were held with the GTA West Regulatory Agency Advisory Group (RAAG), Municipal Advisory Group (MAG) and the Community Advisory Group (CAG). These meetings served a similar purpose – to receive feedback on the proposed process to generate and evaluate alternatives, the types of alternatives that should be considered, the generated transportation system improvement alternatives and the preliminary high-level assessment conducted. The Project Team also met with upper-tier municipalities and committees, and other stakeholders.

All comments received during the third round of PICs from the general public, interest groups, agencies and municipalities were considered by the Project Team. The upcoming release of the Draft Area Transportation System Alternatives Report in March 2010 will be a reflection of this consultation effort.

A list of stakeholders contacted during the third round of PICs is included in Appendix A. Consistent with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, public lists developed as part of this study have not been included.

Public and interest group comments submitted, summarized and organized by theme, are included in Appendix B, with the corresponding response that was generally provided. All public comments submitted to which a reply was requested, received a response from the Project Team. These comments and responses are compiled under separate cover.

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3. PUBLIC CONSULTATION DURING PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3

3.1 Project Website

The GTA West project website (www.gta-west.com) was updated to include the dates, times and locations of the PICs, as well as a link to an electronic copy of the Ontario Government Notice on November 16, 2009. In addition, the PIC display material package and study brochure were made available for the public to download on November 30, 2009.

A copy of the current content of the project website is included in Appendix C.

3.2 Newspaper Notifications

A notice was published in 17 newspapers with circulation across the Preliminary Study Area. The notices provided an overview of the key steps involved in EA Stage 1, notification of the third round of PICs, a key map for Study context and contact information for key Project Team members. A copy of the newspaper notice is included in Appendix D and was published as outlined below.

Notice of Public Information Centre #3

A notice announcing the third round of PICs was published in the following list of newspapers on the specified dates. The notice was also posted on the project website. DAILY NEWSPAPERS 1. Toronto Star Sat November 21, 2009 2. The Guelph Mercury Sat November 21, 2009 Sat November 28, 2009 TRI-WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS 3. Mississauga News Sun November 22, 2009 Fri November 27, 2009 4. Brampton Guardian Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 BI-WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS 5. Caledon Enterprise Sat November 21, 2009 Sat November 28, 2009 6. Vaughan Citizen Thurs November 19, 2009 Thurs November 26, 2009 7. Guelph Tribune Fri November 20, 2009 Fri November 27, 2009 8. Georgetown Acton Independent Wed November 18, 2009 Fri November 27, 2009 9. Milton – The Canadian Champion Fri November 20, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 10. Wellington Advertiser Fri November 20, 2009 Fri November 27, 2009 WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS 11. Caledon Citizen Thurs November 19, 2009 Thurs November 26, 2009 12. King Township Sentinel Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 13. The Erin Advocate Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 14. Le Metropolitain (French) Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 15. Turtle Island News Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 16. Tekawennake New Credit Reporter Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 17. The Halton Compass Thurs November 19, 2009 Thurs November 26, 2009

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3.3 Mailing List and E-mails / Letters

Study Mailing List

A GTA West Study mailing list was developed following the first PIC which includes interested stakeholders that submitted requests through the project website (webform), e-mail, fax, phone or letter. This list is constantly updated. Those who signed in at the first and second PICs have been added to the study mailing list. Once stakeholders are added to the mailing list they received subsequent notifications of the Study milestones outlined below through their preferred method of contact (e-mail / letter). In addition, a list of area interest groups (ratepayers associations, environmental groups, agricultural groups, etc.) was developed in consultation with local municipalities.

The current public mailing list includes approximately 650 names and the interest group mailing list includes approximately 160 groups.

E-mail / Letter Notification of the Release of the Draft Area Transportation System Problems and Opportunities Report

On July 31, 2009, individuals on the Study mailing list were notified by e-mail / letter (depending on their preferred method of contact) of the release of the Draft Area Transportation System Problems & Opportunities Report. The GTA West project website (www.gta-west.com) was updated to include the report on July 31, 2009.

Copies of the Draft Problems and Opportunities Report release notification materials are included in Appendix E.

E-mail / Letter Notification of Public Information Centre #3

On November 13 and 17, 2009, PIC #3 notification emails / letters were sent directly to individuals on the Project Team’s External Agency mailing list (including representatives of the Municipal Advisory Group and Regulatory Agency Advisory Group) and to approximately 160 interest groups. MPP’s within the Preliminary Study Area were notified via mail on November 9, 2009.

Individuals on the Study mailing list, including those who requested to be added to the Study mailing list through webform, e-mail, fax, telephone or letter, were also sent a letter / email on November 13 and 17, 2009, depending on the preferred method of contact. The public mailing list currently includes approximately 650 people. Copies of the PIC #3 notification materials are included in Appendix F.

3.4 Public Information Centre #3

The third round of Public Information Centres (PICs) was held to present alternatives that were developed to address the problems and opportunities presented at the second round of PICs, provide a high level assessment of the alternatives, and receive public input prior to the evaluation of the alternatives.

Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and Consultant representatives of the Project Team attended. The PICs were held as drop-in centres with display panels presenting maps and displays illustrating the problems and opportunities and information for providing

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comments. The Project Team participated in discussions with attendees to address any questions or concerns.

The PICs were held as follows:

Monday November 30, 2009 Thursday December 3, 2009 River Run Centre Mold Master Sportsplex Canada Company Hall Alcott Hall 35 Woolwich Street 221 Guelph Street Guelph, ON Georgetown, ON 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday December 8, 2009 Thursday December 10, 2009 Brampton Fairgrounds Le Jardin Special Events Centre Hall Le Parisien Room 12942 Heart Lake Road 8440 Highway 27 Brampton, ON Woodbridge, ON 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

3.4.1 Display Panels

The display panels presented at the Public Information Centre were organized into groupings in the following order:

GROUP 1 PIC #3 Summary • Background • Process Framework and Previous Consultation • Individual Mode Alternatives • Group of Modal Improvement Alternatives • Next Steps

GROUP 2 Background • Study Purpose, Process and Schedule • Policy Context • Summary of Problems from PIC #2 • Transportation Opportunities • Many Improvements Have Already Been Planned

GROUP 3 Process Framework and Previous Consultation • Process Framework • Previous Consultation • First Nation Involvement

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GROUP 4 Individual Mode Alternatives • Introduction • Transportation Demand Management (TDM) / Transportation System Management (TSM) • Transit • Goods Movement • Freight Rail • Intermodal • Air • Marine • Our Assessment

GROUP 5 Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives • Process • Group #1: Optimize Existing Network • Group #2: New/Improved Non-Roadway Infrastructure • Findings from Group #1 and Group #2 • Group #3: Widen/Improve Existing Roads • Group #3-1 • Group #3-2 • Group #3-3 • Group #3: Summary of Our Assessment • Group #4: New Transportation Corridors • Group #4-1 • Group #4-2 • Group #4-3 • Group #4-4 • Group #4-5 • Group #4: Summary of Our Assessment

GROUP 6 Next Steps • Evaluation • Factors and Criteria to be Used in the Assessment of Alternatives • PIC #4 and Beyond • Consultation and Outreach

Refer to Appendix G for copies of the display panels presented at the PICs. The project website was updated to include copies of the display panels on November 30, 2009.

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3.4.2 Study Documents, Reference Materials and Handouts

Copies of readily available GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study documents and other materials were made available for reference at the PICs, such as: • GTA West Corridor EA Terms of Reference (Amended July 2007) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA Overview of Transportation & Economic Conditions (July 2008) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA Draft Overview of Environmental Conditions and Constraints (July 2008) • GTA West Corridor EA Goals and Objectives (January 2009) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA Overview of Corridor Protection and Development Issues Paper (June 2009) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA Area Transportation System Problems and Opportunities Report (July 2009) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA Overview of Forecasting Demand Analysis Report (July 2009) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA “Long List” of Transportation Alternatives (November 2009) • GTA West Corridor EA Land Use Compilation Map (December 2009) • The Big Move - Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan (November 2008) • GO 2020 Strategic Plan (December 2008) • Brampton Züm Phase 1 and Phase 2 Maps (September 2009) • York Viva Next System Map (As of November 2009) • Provincial Policy Statement (MMAH, 2005) • Places to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (MPIR, 2006) • Greenbelt Plan (MMAH, 2005) • Niagara Escarpment Plan (MNR, 2005) • Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (MMAH, 2002) • Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA, 2004) • The Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (MOE, 1990) • The Environmental Bill of Rights (2006) • MTO Environmental Reference for Highway Design (October 2006)

Copies of draft GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study documents were made available for temporary reference at the PICs, such as: • Draft GTA West Corridor EA High Level Evaluation of “Modal Transportation Alternatives” (November 2009) • Draft GTA West Corridor EA Individual Mode Discussion Papers (November 2009)

A Study brochure and several factsheet hand-outs were also made available to all attendees. The factsheets explained such topics as: • The Ontario Environmental Assessment Process;

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• The Canadian Environmental Assessment Process; • The Greenbelt Plan; • The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe; • The Niagara Escarpment Plan; • The Oak Ridges Moraine; • The GTA West Study Area – Economic Context; and • The GTA West Study Area – Transportation Profile.

Copies of the Study brochure and factsheets are included in Appendix H.

3.4.3 Attendance / Summary of Comments

A total of 312 members of the public signed the Visitor’s Register for the four Public Information Centres.

In addition to verbal comments, Project Team representatives encouraged visitors to submit written comments regarding the information presented. Comment sheets were available for members of the public to fill out at the PIC or to send in by the comment deadline (January 15, 2010) by e-mail, fax or mail to the Project Team.

At the PICs, 29 written comment sheets were collected. In addition, 26 comments were received via webform (6), e-mail (10), fax (3), mail (3) and the toll-free number (4) by the comment deadline. The following is a breakdown of attendance and the number of comments submitted by PIC date/venue:

Recorded Date / Location Written Comments Received Attendance November 30, 2009, Guelph 88 17 December 3, 2009, Georgetown 106 6 December 8, 2009, Caledon 77 3 December 11, 2009, Woodbridge 41 3 Total Comment Forms Received at the PIC 29 Total Comment Forms / Comments received via fax, 26 mail, e-mail, webform or the toll- free number Total 312 55

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The following tables summarize the key written and verbal comments, issues and concerns raised during the third round of PICs:

Summary of Written Comments Submitted # Preliminary Study Area • Extend the Preliminary Study Area boundaries to include Waterloo Region 1 Timeframe / Scope of the Study • The study is too GTA-centric and should further study the transportation needs 1 of residents in Guelph/Georgetown travelling to Hamilton/Niagara/USA • Is there a proposed highway route? 1 Transportation Problems and Opportunities • Congestion is prevalent, time consuming and frustrating, particularly on 2 Highway 401 • Too many trucks, particularly on Highway 401 2 • Roads are in poor condition, particularly Winston Churchill Blvd 1 • General complaints about Trafalgar Rd (speed limit, poorly timed traffic lights, 1 poor interchange design at Highway 401, etc.) • GO Transit bus service shouldn’t be confused with GO Transit rail service. The 1 presence of rail service can shape and change behaviour/locational choices, while the presence of buses only addresses travel options for existing markets Travel Demand Analysis / Modelling • Consider current economic situation and peak oil in data/modelling 1 Alternatives • Need to build/expand rail/transit/freight infrastructure, particularly before 10 considering road/highway works • New transportation infrastructure should parallel existing corridors, ex. New 6 highways or new GO Transit corridors should follow the Highway 401 and/or Highway 400 corridors • Like Alternative 4-2 (Link from Highway 400 to Highway 401 is more direct, 6 economic benefits, add link to Milton along Steeles Ave) • Don’t like Alternative 4-4 (property impacts, will damage escarpment lands and 6 destroy valuable farm land) • Don’t like Group 4/new corridor alternatives (too expensive, not best use of 5 taxpayer money, negative environmental and community effects, encourage car/truck traffic, may not be needed in the future due to peak oil) • Like Alternative 4-3 (Reduced impact on watershed areas in the north, traffic 5 can bypass the west GTA with minimal impact on natural features) • Prefer widening alternatives (Group 3) 4 • Don’t like Alternative 4-5 (would also cause too many problems with existing 4 connections to Highway 6 and 401) • Include more active transportation options (ie. long distance routes adjacent to 3 transitway, more cycling infrastructure, plan for bikes/electric bikes/scooters) • Should widen Mayfield Road 3 • Like Group 2 alternatives 2 • Like the idea of building transitways adjacent/in-between highways 2 • Like Alternative 4-5 (Reduced impact on watershed areas in the north, 2 provides better linkages to other highways in case of blockage, accommodates South Georgetown, connects with Halton-Peel North-South corridor at Mayfield Rd, will eliminate the need for a future link between the two corridors, has the least environmental constraints) • Don’t like Group 3/widening alternatives (will create more congestion and 2 encourage more single-occupancy vehicle use) • Should widen Highway 410 2

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Summary of Written Comments Submitted # • Return County Road 124 to being a provincial highway, with a bypass to the 2 north of Erin village. • Create dedicated truck lanes 2 • Put HOV lanes on all highways, particularly when widening existing highways 2 • Utilize existing and underused rail lines for passenger rail service, ex. CN north 2 main line, Guelph Junction Railway, Fergus Sub, Highway 410 Rail Corridor • Need more local transit service that connects to GO Transit service 2 • Like Group 1 1 • Like Group 4 1 • Like Alternative 4-1 1 • Like Alternative 4-4 (will provide a better connection to the City of Guelph) 1 • Don’t like Alternative 3-3 1 • Don’t like Alternative 4-2 (would cause even more problems with vehicles than 1 now exist) • Don’t like Alternative 4-3 (bad approach because freeways need to be built in 1 cells with east-west and north-south linkages) • Don’t like proposed upgrades to Highway 7 through Rockwood to 4 lanes 1 • New highway between Brampton and Caledon will not be useful 1 • Doubt that encouraging private vehicle use and building new highways will 1 solve the transportation issues in the study area • Show more realistic potential corridors through Caledon and King/Vaughan to 1 connect to Highway 400. All of the current options go directly through Bolton • Should widen King Street 1 • Should widen Highway 427 1 • Should widen Highway 50 1 • Should widen Highway 9 1 • Should widen Winston Churchill Blvd from County 124 south to Olde Baseline 1 Road. Then take the route east to Mississauga Road, then south to link up with the corridor at Mayfield. • Establish a north-south route between Acton and Ballinafad that would take 1 traffic from County 124 down to Highway 7 • Establish a new route between Trafalgar Road and Winston Churchill Blvd., 1 then on the Mississauga Road, in the area of the 22nd Sideroad. • New corridor is needed from Hanlon to Highway 410 at Mayfield Road 1 • A new corridor would be more appropriate in the Highway 24 area 1 • Create HOV only highways, ex. Los Angeles 1 • Review possibility of using hydro corridors for highway right-of-ways 1 • Improve management of current highway system 1 • Locate a new corridor in proximity to existing GO Transit rail corridors 1 • GO Bus service is needed from Brampton to Erin to Orangeville 1 • GO Transit service is needed in the Gore Rd/Castlemore Area to Union Station 1 and Pearson Airport • Any GO Transit rail expansion should start with peak period service (minimum 1 4 trains each way), progress to 6 trains/all-day/express service, and ultimately create two-way service • Extend GO Transit rail service to Waterloo on the North Mainline 1 • Extend GO Transit rail service to Cambridge on the CP Mainline 1 • Provide fare subsidy for transfers from local bus transit to GO Transit bus 1 service • Need better coordination between bus schedules and rail service 1 • Create transit connection between Georgetown and Mississauga 1

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Summary of Written Comments Submitted # • Create cross-boundary bus service in Highway 7 and Highway 24 corridors 1 • Link highway carpool lots through public transportation 1 • Use diesel multiple unit (DMU) technology to link regional centres 1 • Transit development in Toronto is 30 years behind where it should be 1 • MTO has presented a highway-based solution since that is their specialty 1 • Like proposed active transportation improvements to transportation hubs, such 1 as increased bike storage • Establish major truck routes 1 • The GTA West Study could be the impetus to start a dialogue on freight rail 1 rationalization, which is especially important as Ontario's economy restructures • Construction should begin at Highway 400 and proceed west 1 Environmental Effects / Evaluation of Alternatives • Protect agricultural lands/ agricultural operations, and the interests of farmers 9 and rural landowners • Protect features of the natural environment (i.e. air quality, climate change, 4 environmentally sensitive areas) • Protect features of the socio-economic environment (i.e. human health, 3 established communities, property expropriation) • Heritage and cultural issues are important to consider 2 • Consider wildlife/amphibian crossings when widening highways 2 • Avoid crossing the Niagara Escarpment 2 • Protect natural recreation areas (i.e. Bruce Trail) 1 • Protect conservation areas (i.e. the Niagara Escarpment) 1 • Educate the public on the cost of owning a vehicle vs. taking public 1 transportation • If the expansion of marine freight is considered, environmental impacts and 1 chance of pollution from shipwrecks should be reviewed Public Consultation • PIC displays were well presented and informative; an impressive amount of 9 work has been completed • Looking forward to results at PIC #4 3 • Too much information was presented; overwhelming amount of material 1 Alterations to / Accuracy of Public Information Centre #2 Display Materials • Board 20 (Cluster 4 – Freight Rail): CPR on map should be labelled as OBRY 1 • Board 21 (Cluster 4 – Freight Rail): Photos should be labelled 1 • Board 30 (Cluster 5 – Group 3-1): Show Mt. Pleasant station along expanded 1 Georgetown Corridor • Show the Bruce Trail routes on study mapping 1 Growth Plan • Benefits to growth are a fallacy 1 • The GTA West Corridor will encourage sprawl 1 • Provincial and Federal policies are needed to slow the rate of growth in 1 Southern Ontario Other Studies/ Resources to Consider • Like plans for Highway 24 between Guelph and Cambridge 2 • The connection between the GTA West Project and other projects, like the 2 NGTA Corridor, needs to be better explained • Consider transportation solutions and case studies from other jurisdictions / 1 internationally • Like GO 2020 expansion plans 1 • Is a new GO Transit rail station proposed for Guelph? 1 • The GTA West Project Team should connect with the NGTA Project Team 1

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Summary of Written Comments Submitted # • General questions/issues regarding the Highway 427 Transportation Corridor 1 • Recommendation and questions regarding plans for Highway 50, from 1 Mayfield Rd and King Rd • The decision to bring 407ETR to Highway 401 at Trafalgar was wrong 1 • Continuing 407 ETR east-west through Durham is the right approach, and this 1 should be continued on the west side of the GTA General • The Federal Government should look at population growth in a different way 1 and not “pave paradise” • The GTA West EA is vital to the future economic success of the entire Greater 1 Golden Horseshoe • York Region has tainted the EA process by presupposing a highway solution in 1 its new Official Plan Requests for Information • Requests for PIC #3 display materials. 7 • Please add me to the mailing list / keep me informed 4 • Please provide me with a copy of the Consolidated Land Use Map 1 • Please provide me with a Halton-Peel Boundary Area Transportation Study 1 (HP-BATS) contact name • Please provide me with hardcopies of the High-level Evaluation Tables and 1 Individual Mode Discussion papers made available at PIC #3 • Request for PIC #3 comment sheet 1 Requests for More Information on other MTO Studies • Is there a GTA East Study? There should be a plan for east of Highway 400 1 • Why was Highway 410 extended to Mayfield Rd and beyond? 1 • Why was Highway 404 extended to Sutton and Highway 427? 1 • The future of the Highway 7 EA, between Kitchener and Guelph, is unclear 1

Summary of Verbal Comments Submitted Alternatives • General support for Group 3 and 4 alternatives, particularly 4-4 and 4-5. 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 are too small so why bother? • General questions about the Group 4 new corridor alternatives –Where is the highway/road going? How wide are the corridors as shown? Will I be affected? How much land will be needed for the right-of-way and interchanges for a new corridor? • General property concerns – Will a new corridor impact my property? Will a new corridor go through local farms? • A new corridor would help local farms better move goods. • A new corridor could have a positive effect on local land values. • General assumption that a new corridor will be proposed. • The building of a new corridor should be staged and begin in the east where there is more demand. • General support for the multi-modal approach used. • The Project Team should have looked at alternatives north of the Preliminary Study Area around Highway 9. • Potential conflicts could occur with planned Region of Peel water/wastewater infrastructure. • There is no need for widenings. Build a new corridor soon. • A true bypass of the GTA should be built which extends further east than the Preliminary

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Summary of Verbal Comments Submitted Study Area’s boundaries. • More north-south links should be considered. • A new corridor should have connections to Highways 403 and 401. • King Rd should be considered for widening instead of Kirby Rd due to the environmentally sensitive lands along Kirby Rd and because of the MTO’s current work at the King Rd- Highway 400 interchange. • A truckway should be considered in the GTA West corridor • Question about the status and alignment of corridor in the Bolton/Mayfield area and MTO property purchase approach. • General concern that the solution for the area isn’t rail-focused. Transit/rail service should be increased before new roads/highways are proposed. Europe should be looked to for examples. • More transit/rail links are needed from the Guelph/Wellington area to Pearson International Airport. • An alternative route to Highway 400 is needed. • Question about widening of Highway 407 and who pays for it. Transportation • There is a lot of truck traffic on local roads, particularly on Highway 24 and Trafalgar Road. A new corridor may relieve this. • Highway 401 is too congested with trucks. • The current congestion on municipal roads is unacceptable. • The existing rail system is very Toronto-focused. Existing rail lines should be used more for goods movement between areas outside of Toronto, ex. Guelph to Georgetown. • General questions about the Metrolinx and GO Transit proposals for the study area. • Current farming operations are negatively affected by local traffic congestion. • Why are we planning for a future with cars when we have reached “peak oil” conditions? • The St. Lawrence Seaway should be better utilized. More freight goods should be moved to ships. • More goods should be moved to rail. • There is a lack of useful transit opportunities in rural areas. Often you must drive out of the way to get to transit facilities. • Improve connections to transit stations. • Transitways should be built in the middle of roads/highways not adjacent to them. • The proposed future transit system for north-east Brampton is bleak. More transit routes are needed. • GO Transit stations do not have adequate parking spaces. Study Process and Timeframe • General questions regarding the study timeline - When will the alternatives be evaluated? When will the EA study be finished? When will a decision be made? When will the final transportation development strategy be built? • The project has good intentions, but it is too late to do anything about the problems. The study should have been conducted years ago. • Evaluation factors should include cost of accidents. • Clarification regarding the type of study being conducted (Planning Study, not Detail Design) and why there isn’t more detail available for each of the alternatives. • The study outcome is predetermined, thus poor use of government funds/taxpayer’s money for the study. Policy and Other Studies • General questions about the Ontario government’s land use and transit vision. • General doubt about the growth projections in the Growth Plan. • Is there a long range outlook beyond 2031? • Is the Project Team integrating with the Sustainable Halton and the Halton-Peel BATS

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Summary of Verbal Comments Submitted studies? • General questions and concerns about the Halton-Peel BATS study. • A few attendees at the GTA West Georgetown PIC thought the meeting was for the Halton- Peel BATS study due to the appearance of an article regarding the HP-BATS study printed next to the GTA West ad in the Georgetown-Acton Independent. • There were general questions about the study’s relationship to Highway 413/414. • Roads are needed to accommodate growth however is the growth unsustainable? • What factors will be used in the evaluation? • The Highway 10 widening is a mistake. The project should have bypassed Caledon entirely. • The new interchange at Highway 410 and 10 is poorly designed and many trucks have had problems at the interchange. Signing may improve this issue and MTO should be proactive in addressing this. • Municipal Transportation Master Plans are not in sync with Provincial Plans. • General questions about the GTA West land use map and what the designations mean. • Extension of Hwy 427 to the north to Hwy 9 and Simcoe is long overdue, why is it not identified in the Growth Plan and what was the rationale? • General questions and concerns about the Highway 427 extension. • Concerns about the Peel-Brampton Class EA looking to connect Mayfield Rd to Major Mackenzie Drive. • Questions regarding the status of the New Highway 7 project between Kitchener and Guelph. Environmental • Concerns about a potential crossing of the Bruce Trail/Niagara Escarpment. Concerns should be addressed early in the process to avoid confrontation later. Tunnelling, as is done in Europe, should be considered if a new crossing is required. • If a crossing of the Niagara Escarpment is proposed, it must be thoroughly justified. • The Bruce Trail is a conservation corridor that should be considered throughout the study process. • Concerns about potential impacts on agricultural lands. • The Environmental Conditions and Constraints Report is not up to date. General • There was a general understanding of the need for the project. • Many attendees complimented the Project Team for the amount of work they have completed, however the amount of information at the PIC was found to be overwhelming. • The Ontario government should stop municipalities from rezoning land where a new corridor is needed so that the land price won’t become too expensive to acquire. • Have municipalities been consulted with? • A map should be made which displays just the future MTO planned improvements. • General interest in attending upcoming Community Advisory Group meetings. • There is intense development pressure in Vaughan. • Lack of free and available parking near the Guelph PIC venue.

3.5 Consultation with the Community Advisory Group

To assist the Project Team as the Study progresses, a Community Advisory Group (CAG) was formed to provide valuable input on community perspectives. The CAG includes representatives from several stakeholder / interest groups, organizations, and individuals in and around the Preliminary Study Area. The CAG was formed based on applications received during the preparation of the EA Terms of Reference.

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On July 14, 2009, the fourth meeting of the CAG was held in order to get feedback on the proposed process to generate and evaluate alternatives and input to the types of alternatives that should be considered.

On November 5, 2009, a fifth CAG meeting was held in order to receive feedback on the generated transportation system improvement alternatives, the preliminary high-level assessment conducted and to discuss the packaging of the material for the third round of consultation.

The summary notes from these meetings are provided in Appendix I.

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4. CONSULTATION WITH MUNICIPALITIES AND AGENCIES DURING PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3

4.1 Municipal Advisory Group

A Municipal Advisory Group (MAG) was formed during the Study’s commencement based on the geographic context of the Preliminary Study Area and includes representatives from upper and lower tier municipalities in the Preliminary Study Area.

On June 24, 2009, the third meeting of the MAG was held prior to the generation of alternatives in order to get feedback on the proposed process to generate and evaluate alternatives and acquire input to the types of alternatives that should be considered.

On November 3, 2009, the fourth meeting of the MAG was held prior to the third round of PICs in order to receive feedback on the generated alternatives and the assessment process used.

The presentation and summary notes from these meetings are provided in Appendix J.

4.2 Regulatory Agency Advisory Group

A Regulatory Agency Advisory Group (RAAG) was formed during the Study’s commencement and includes potentially affected federal ministries, provincial ministries, regional agencies (Conservation Authorities) and Transportation Service Providers.

On June 19, 2009, the third meeting of the RAAG was held prior to the generation of alternatives in order to get feedback on the proposed process to generate and evaluate alternatives and acquire input to the types of alternatives that should be considered. This meeting was held as a joint meeting with the Niagara to GTA Corridor Environmental Assessment team.

On November 10, 2009, the fourth meeting of the RAAG was held prior to the third round of PICs in order to receive feedback on the generated alternatives and the assessment process used.

The presentation summary notes from these meetings are provided in Appendix K.

4.3 Presentations to Upper-Tier Municipal Councils and Committees

The Project Team gave presentations to upper-tier municipal councils and committees from across the Preliminary Study Area in order to provide an overview of the progress of the Study since PIC #2. Lower-tier municipalities could request presentations by the Project Team however these requests would be entertained if the scheduling was compatible. The Town of Caledon and City of Brampton requested presentations.

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The presentations were held as follows:

• Halton Region – Planning and Public Works Committee...... November 12, 2009 • Town of Caledon – Council ...... November 17, 2009 • County of Wellington/City of Guelph* – Council...... November 23, 2009 • Peel Region – General Committee ...... December 3, 2009 • City of Brampton – Council...... January 27, 2010

*The City of Guelph as well as lower-tier municipalities in the County of Wellington were invited to attend the Wellington Council presentation.

The summary notes from these meetings are included in Appendix L.

By request of the Commissioner of Transportation and Works and through the Manager of Transportation Planning, the GTA West Project Team delegation scheduled for December 2, 2009 at the York Region Planning and Economic Development Committee was cancelled. The material that was to be presented was forwarded to the Regional Clerk on November 24, 2009 for distribution to Committee members. A copy of the letter sent to the Regional Clerk is enclosed in Appendix M.

4.4 Other Meetings

The Project Team conducted extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders prior to the third round of consultation. The following is a list of these meetings, the date they were held and their overall purpose:

Date Meeting Purpose

February 23, 2009 Municipal Workshop – Halton Region To discuss corridor protection issues, review areas of interest February 24, 2009 Municipal Workshop – Peel Region identified by the Project Team, discuss opportunities to refine February 24, 2009 Municipal Workshop – York Region these areas and identify any additional areas known by March 2, 2009 Municipal Workshop – Guelph/Wellington municipalities.

April 24, 2009 Halton Hills Council Workshop To discuss corridor protection and development issues related to the areas of interest identified by the Project Team.

May 19, 2009 Conservation Authority Workshop – To discuss current Conservation Conservation Halton/Niagara Escarpment Authority/NEC studies and the Commission (NEC) sensitive environmental features within the Preliminary Study May 20, 2009 Conservation Authority Workshop – Area. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority

May 20, 2009 Conservation Authority Workshop – Credit Valley Conservation

May 26, 2009 Conservation Authority Workshop – Grand River Conservation Authority

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June 8/9, 2009 Think Tank Session for GTA West and Two-day workshop to generate Niagara to GTA Studies alternatives.

September 25, 2009 GTA West and Niagara to GTA Provincial Workshop to update agency Agency Workshop members on the work completed for NGTA and GTA West and to engage agency members in a discussion to encourage the members to provide comments and / or potential policy issues with the preliminary alternatives.

September 28, 2009 Ontario Growth Secretariat Reviewed purpose of study and addressed questions.

October 13, 2009 Halton Transportation Advisory Presentation and discussion on Committee the Draft Area Transportation System Problems and Opportunities Report

October 14, 2009 Metrolinx and GO Transit To provide a study update and present and seek feedback on the group alternatives that had been generated.

November 16, 2009 Meeting with Greenbelt Council Reviewed how Greenbelt Plan policies will be addressed.

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5. CONSULTATION WITH FIRST NATIONS

Following PIC #2, MTO continued to engage the following First Nations groups / committees: the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy Council, the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation and the Kawartha Nishnawbe First Nations.

A meeting was held with the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation on October 28, 2009 in order to provide a study progress update, present and seek feedback on the process framework for developing & assessing transportation alternatives and to present and seek feedback on the group alternatives that had been generated.

The project team also offered the opportunity to meet with First Nation communities potentially affected by the project at their request.

Letters were sent by MTO to the four groups on November 9, 2009 inviting them to attend PIC #3 in order to review and comment on the materials presented. The invitation letters are included in Appendix N.

Notice of PIC #3 was also advertised in the following weekly newspapers:

1. Turtle Island News Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009 2. Tekawennake New Credit Reporter Wed November 18, 2009 Wed November 25, 2009

At PIC #3 two First Nations display panels were presented which outlined the following: • Six Nations of the Grand River Territory • Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation • First Nations Considerations • Active Land Claims around the Preliminary Study Area (as of September 30, 2008) • First Nations Engagement

A copy of the display panels is enclosed in Appendix G. In addition to the display panels, a video supplied by the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation, “A Sacred Trust: Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation”, was played and the report, “Final Report: Mississauga of the New Credit First Nation’s Traditional Territory (January 15, 1999, Praxix Research Associates),” was also made available.

MTO is committed to engaging First Nations communities throughout the GTA West Study and will continue discussions with First Nations in a manner appropriate to them.

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APPENDIX A STAKEHOLDERS MAILING LISTS

GTA West Corridor Planning and Environmental Assessment Study – Stage 1 Public Information Centre #3 Consultation Record

Stakeholders Consulted Prior to Public Information Centre #3

Government Agencies • Ontario Power Generation • Canadian Environmental Assessment • Ontario Provincial Police Agency • Ontario Realty Corporation • Canadian National Rail • Public Works and Government Services • Canadian Pacific Rail Canada • Conservation Halton • Transport Canada • Credit Valley Conservation Authority • Toronto Region Conservation Authority • Department of Fisheries and Oceans • Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Municipalities Canada • City of Brampton • Environment Canada • City of Guelph • GO Transit • City of Mississauga • Grand River Conservation Authority • City of Vaughan • Greater Toronto Airports Authority • Halton Region Health Department • Health Canada • Peel Region Public Health • Hydro One Inc. • Region of Halton • Metrolinx • Region of Peel • Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural • Regional Municipality of Waterloo Affairs • Town of Caledon • Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration • Town of Erin • Ministry of Culture – Archaeology • Town of Halton Hills • Ministry of Culture – Heritage • Town of Milton • Ministry of Economic Development and • Township of Centre Wellington Trade • Township of Guelph / Eramosa • Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure – • Township of King Ontario Growth Secretariat • Township of Mapleton • Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care – • Township of Puslinch Environmental Health Division • Township of Wellington North • Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care – • Wellington County Public Health Division • Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Health Unit • Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing • York Region • Ministry of Natural Resources – Aurora District • York Region Public Health Services • Ministry of Natural Resources – Guelph District First Nations • Ministry of Natural Resources – Wellington • Kawartha Nishnawbe First Nations County Stewardship Council • Mississaugas of the New Credit First • Ministry of Northern Development and Mines Nation - Corporate Policy Secretariat • Six Nations of the Grand River Territory • Ministry of Northern Development and Mines • The Haudenosaunee Confederacy – Southern Ontario Council

• Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal – Non-Governmental Organizations Ontario Growth Secretariat • Aileen Willowbrook Ratepayer’s • Ministry of the Attorney General Association • Ministry of the Environment • Architectural Conservancy of Ontario, • Niagara Escarpment Commission Guelph & Wellington Branch • Ontario Power Authority

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Stakeholders Consulted Prior to Public Information Centre #3

• Bayview Country Club Estates Ratepayers • Friends of the Grand River Association • Friends of the Greenbelt Federation • Bayview Fairways Ratepayer’s Association • Friends of Rural Communities and the • Bayview Glen Residents’ Association Environment • Belvedere Estates Ratepayers’ Association • German Mills Ratepayers’ Association • The Brampton Board of Trade • Glen Shields Ratepayers’ Association • Brampton Economic Development & Public • Grandview Area Residents’ Association Relations • Gravel Watch Ontario • Brampton Historical Society • Greater Toronto Area Agricultural Action • Brampton Sustainable Community Committee Collaborative • Greenspaces for Wellington • Brownridge Ratepayers’ Association • GreenTrans • The Bruce Trail Association • Guelph Chamber of Commerce • The Bruce Trail Conservancy • Guelph Downtown Board of Management • Caledon Chamber of Commerce • Guelph Environmental Network • Caledon Countryside Alliance • Guelph Field Naturalists • Caledon East & District Historical Society • Guelph Historical Society • Canadian Automobile Association South • Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition Central Ontario • Guelph-Wellington Business Enterprise • Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Centre Ontario Division • Halton Environmental Network • Canadian Trucking Alliance • Halton Region Federation of Agriculture • The Canadian Urban Institute • Halton Urban Development Institute • Canadian Urban Transit Association • Halton Hills Chamber of Commerce • Carrying Place Property Owners Association • Halton Hills Town Environmental Advisory • Cheltenham Area Residents’ Association Committee • Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario • Halton/North Peel Naturalists Club • Citizens for a Clean Caledon • Heritage Caledon • Citizens Opposed to Paving the Escarpment • Hike Ontario • Coalition of Concerned Citizens • The Hills of Headwaters Tourism • Coalition on the Niagara Escarpment Association • Columbus Trail Residents’ Association • Hillsburgh Snow Roamers • Community Environmental Leadership • The Humber Valley Heritage Trail Programme - Guelph Association • Concerned Citizens of King Township • Humberview Gardens Ratepayers’ • Concord West Ratepayers’ Association Association • Credit River Alliance • Islington Woods Community Association • Crestwood Springfarm Yorkhill Ratepayers’ • Kettleby Village Association Association • King City Preserve the Village • Cricklewood Ratepayers’ Association • King Rural Ratepayers’ Association • East Wellington Community Association • King Township Chamber of Commerce • Ecosource • Kipling Ratepayer’s Association • Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy • Kleinburg & Area Ratepayers’ Association • Ferndale Park Cottagers Cooperative • Kortright Hills Community Association Limited • Lakeview Estates Ratepayers’ Association • Friends of Boyd Park

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Stakeholders Consulted Prior to Public Information Centre #3

• Langstaff Community Association • Protect our Water and Natural Resources Incorporated • Protecting Escarpment Rural Land • Leitchcroft Ratepayers’ Association • Purpleville Ratepayers’ Association • Maple Landing Ratepayers’ Association • Puslinch Historical Society • Maple-Sherwood Ratepayers’ Association • Puslinch Lake Conservation Association • Maplewood Ravines Community Association • Residents for Sustainable Development in • Milton Chamber of Commerce Guelph • Milton Heights Landowners Group • Rimwood Estates Homeowners’ • Milton Historical Society Association • Milton Ratepayers’ Association • Save our Ravines (Halton Hills) • Milton Rural Residents Association • Save the Oak Ridges Moraine • Milwood Woodend Ratepayers’ Association • Sherwood Forrest Residents’ Association • Mississauga Board of Trade • SHIFT Ontario • Mississauga Oakridge Ratepayers’ • Sonoma Heights Ratepayers’ Association Association • Terra Cotta Community Centre • Mississauga Road-Sawmill Valley Drive • Transport 2000 Ontario Ratepayers’ Association • Toronto Bruce Trail Club • Nature Conservancy of Canada – Ontario • Trout Unlimited Canada Chapter • Upper Credit Field Naturalists • Nobleton Alert Residents Association • Valleywood Residents’ Association Incorporated • Vaughan Chamber of Commerce • Nobleton Schomberg District Chamber of • Vaughanwood Estates Homeowners’ Commerce Association • Northwest Brampton Landowners Group • Vaughanwood Ratepayers’ Association • Norval Pit-Stop Community Organization • Vellore Woods Ratepayers’ Association • Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation • Ward One (South) Thornhill Residents • The Oak Ridges Trail Association Incorporated • Oakville Chamber of Commerce • Wellington County Historical Society • Ontario Chamber of Commerce • Wellington Federation of Agriculture • Ontario Cycling Association • Wellington Society for the Countryside • Ontario Federation of Agriculture • West Woodbridge Homeowners’ • Ontario Professional Planners Institute Association • Ontario Road Ecology Group • Whole Village • Ontario Society for Environmental • Woodbridge Core Ratepayers’ Association Management • Woodbridge Meadows Ratepayers’ • Ontario Trail Riders Association Association • Ontario Trails Council • Wycliffe Ratepayers’ Association • Ontario Trucking Association • York Federation of Agriculture • Palgrave Ratepayers’ Association • York Region Environmental Alliance • Peel Environmental Network • York Urban Development Institute • Peel Federation of Agriculture • Peel Urban Development Institute • Pine Grove Ratepayers’ Association • Pinewood Estates Ratepayers’ Association • Ponsonby Ratepayers’ Association • Professional Engineers of Ontario

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APPENDIX B RESPONSES TO PUBLIC / INTEREST

GROUP COMMENTS – KEY THEMES

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Theme Comment Response Preliminary Expand the Preliminary Study Area The Ministry of Transportation currently does not have plans to pursue a GTA Study Area east of Highway 400. East Study. The purpose of the GTA West Study is to provide better linkages between the Urban Growth Centres identified in the Growth Plan that are within the Preliminary Study Area, including Downtown Guelph, Downtown Milton, Brampton City Centre and Vaughan Corporate Centre. Preliminary Expand the Preliminary Study Area The Project Team is considering the transportation linkages and gateways in Study Area farther west to include areas both in and outside of the Preliminary Study Area since both can have Kitchener/Waterloo and Guelph. an influence on the travel demand and traffic patterns in the Study Area. The proposed improvements to Highway 7 between Kitchener and Guelph will address future travel demands and improve the linkage between Guelph and Kitchener-Waterloo. Having received environmental approval for the Highway 7 Environmental Assessment, the Ministry of Transportation is now proceeding with the design for a new four-lane highway between Kitchener and Guelph. The GTA West Study has taken the approved Highway 7 project as a given and have been examining alternatives that will provide better linkages between Urban Growth Centres in the Preliminary Study Area, including Vaughan Corporate Centre, Brampton City Centre, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph. Travel Incorporate the current economic The travel demand analysis completed by the Project Team has incorporated Demand recession and peak oil into the Study the prospect of economic fluctuations, including higher fuel prices. These Analysis data and modelling. fluctuations are difficult to estimate for future timeframes and their impact to travel are likewise difficult to estimate. Our specialist team includes economic experts and their resources will be called upon throughout the Study. Alternatives Prefer a rail / transit solution. The Study Terms of Reference, approved on March 4, 2008 by the Ontario Minister of the Environment, represents a commitment from the MTO to examine a variety of alternatives to meaningfully address the transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area. The Project Team has recently developed a range of transportation system alternatives using a building-block approach which considers optimizing the existing transportation network and new/expanded non-road infrastructure (such as public transit and rail) prior to the consideration of widening/improving/ building new road infrastructure. The generated alternatives will be evaluated using a range of factors and criteria to determine

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Theme Comment Response which alternative(s) should be carried forward. The outcome of Stage 1 of the EA Study will be a Multi-modal Transportation Development Strategy. The nature and location of the final Multi-modal Transportation Development Strategy will not be determined until the end of EA Stage 1, which is anticipated for late 2010.

The Province is currently planning many transit initiatives in the Preliminary Study Area that were recommended by GO Transit as a part of the GO 2020 Strategic Plan and by Metrolinx as a part of the Regional Transportation Plan. All of the transit improvements recommended by GO Transit and Metrolinx have been considered as a part of the base network for this Study. We encourage you to review the GO 2020 Service Plan on the GO Transit website at www.gotransit.com or Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan at www.metrolinx.com/thebigmove. Alternatives Prefer solutions that encourage The Project Team has examined Transportation Demand Management (TDM) active transportation (cycling and alternatives to shift demand from the existing transportation network to pedestrian travel). alternative modes of transportation, principally transit, cycling and walking. Active transportation is an integral part of the Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan. We encourage you to review the Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan at www.metrolinx.com/thebigmove. Alternatives Consider dedicated truck lanes. This is a new technique that is to be considered for application in the study. The Project Team will carry out the necessary research and consider this prior to the next PIC as we prepare the Transportation Development Strategy. Alternatives Consider dedicated High Occupancy The Ministry of Transportation has developed a plan for adding HOV lanes to Vehicle (HOV) lanes and bus lanes. the 400-series highways in the Greater Golden Horseshoe over the next 25 years. It is a plan for building an HOV network that allows for more efficient travel for all vehicles on some of the most heavily used and congested highways in our major urban areas. There is potential for over 450 kilometres of new HOV lanes to be created. More details of the Ministry’s HOV Plan can be obtained by visiting the website at: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/hov/plan2007.shtml#figure3

In addition, bus lanes and other dedicated bus facilities are either now in service or are in the planning stages for several provincial and municipal

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Theme Comment Response services. Both of these techniques are expected to provide better use of existing and future transportation infrastructure.

Alternatives Consider transit corridor allowances If a new transportation corridor is selected as the preferred alternative for the along any new highways. GTA West Study, the Ministry of Transportation will consider the implementation of higher order transit along this corridor. Alternatives Consider transportation solutions The Project Team will be considering relevant transportation studies and how that have been implemented in other other jurisdictions deal with transportation issues as the Study progresses, Provinces or internationally to ensure including current transportation planning occurring out-of-province and all reasonable and innovative internationally. Our Project Team includes an extensive group of specialists transportation solutions are that are familiar with similar initiatives elsewhere in the world. This resource examined. will be used as the Study progresses. Alternatives Concern regarding the location of the The representative alternatives shown in Group 4 (New Transportation Group 4 alternatives. Corridors) are intended to illustrate possible end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route locations/alignments of these illustrative alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages), as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s) will be examined in more detail in subsequent steps of the EA Process. Environmental Generally concerned about The GTA West Study is an environmental planning process, required by law, Effects environmental effects. to ensure the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) examines alternative ways of addressing transportation problems and opportunities in selecting a preferred alternative. When considering alternatives, MTO is required to consider the advantages and disadvantages of the various alternatives on the natural, socio-economic and cultural environments. The evaluation process is designed to select an alternative that avoids, minimizes or prevents adverse effects to significant environmental features, including land use, natural, socio- economic and cultural features, to the extent possible. The Project Team has compiled a Draft Overview of Environmental Conditions and Constraints Report (July 2008) which documents the existing environmental conditions and constraints within the Preliminary Study Area. As the EA Study progresses and the range of alternatives become more focused, more detailed environmental investigations will be undertaken. The Draft Overview of Environmental Conditions and Constraints Report is

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Theme Comment Response available on the project website at www.gta-west.com. Environmental Protect the Greenbelt, the Oak The EA process being followed by the GTA West Project Team is designed to Effects Ridges Moraine, Niagara carefully consider potential impacts to environmental features including the Escarpment and other conservation Niagara Escarpment, Greenbelt, Oak Ridges Moraine and other conservation areas. areas during the generation and evaluation of alternatives. Environmental Protect natural recreation areas (i.e. The Project Team has compiled a Draft Overview of Environmental Conditions Effects The Bruce Trail, rural hiking trails) and Constraints Report (July 2008) which documents the existing environmental conditions and constraints within the Preliminary Study Area, including a recreation and trail map (Exhibit 4-7). The Draft Overview of Environmental Conditions and Constraints Report is available on the project website at www.gta-west.com.

While the Project Team has yet to determine if new transportation infrastructure is needed, as indicated in Table 6.1 of the study Terms of Reference (also available on the project website), national, provincial and local parks and conservation/recreational areas have been designated as an important consideration when evaluating transportation alternatives. The alternatives evaluation process has been designed to select an alternative that avoids, minimizes or prevents adverse effects to significant environmental features, including land use, natural, socio-economic and cultural features. As we move forward in the study we will begin gathering further detailed information on trail networks within the study area. This information will be used primarily in Stage 2 of the EA when we will be generating and evaluating new infrastructure alternatives (if it is determined that new infrastructure is required). At that stage the Project Team will consider all trails and will develop mitigation measures if trail connectivity is impacted. Environmental Protect agricultural lands and the The study maintains as an underlying principle to protect prime agricultural Effects interests of farmers and rural lands to the extent possible which is consistent with the provincial policy landowners. direction in the Growth Plan (2006) and Greenbelt Plan (2005). The EA Study framework has been designed to evaluate alternatives based on a number of environmental criteria, which include agriculture and rural land use. The agricultural specialist on the Project Team will assist us in the assessment and resource evaluation of agricultural operations/facilities.

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Theme Comment Response Environmental Concerns regarding the effects of As the study progresses, specific measures of the effects on air quality will be Effects increased idling and traffic on air developed. Stage 1 of the EA Study will include an assessment of regional air quality. quality including an examination of greenhouse gas emissions associate with the various alternatives. Once a preferred “Alternative to the Undertaking” has been selected more detailed air quality modeling will be undertaken during Stage 2 of the EA Study. Provincial The Province’s transportation While the GTA West Corridor EA Study is primarily examining east-west travel Transportation planning efforts should be in the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH), the transportation demand Planning coordinated. forecasting for the study will be based on the entire transportation network in the GGH. In this way future travel to and from cities/communities outside the Preliminary Study Area, such as Peterborough and Fort Erie/U.S., will be accounted for. In addition, the analysis and findings from other Ministry of Transportation studies, such as the Niagara to GTA Corridor, 427 Corridor Extension, Highway 407 East Extension Corridor and municipal transportation studies, will be considered and coordinated throughout the GTA West EA Study. Growth Plan General doubt about the predicted The Greater Golden Horseshoe is one of the fastest growing regions in North growth figures in the Growth Plan. America. The Growth Plan is a 25-year plan that sets out a vision and strategic policy direction for managing growth in the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The population and employment projections and distributions that have been developed by the Project Team are consistent with the policy objectives of the Growth Plan and have been developed in consultation with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Renewal, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the municipalities within the Preliminary Study Area. Growth Plan Discourage the propagation of urban This study was initiated to support the policy directions of the province’s sprawl. Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (2006), which was designed specifically to direct growth to built-up areas, where the capacity exists to accommodate the expected population and employment growth. Subsequently, this EA study will focus to provide better transportation linkages between Urban Growth Centres in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area identified in the Growth Plan (including Downtown Guelph, Downtown Milton, Brampton City Centre, and Vaughan Corporate Centre) through an integrated system of transportation modes characterized by efficient public transit, a highway system for moving people and goods with good access to

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Theme Comment Response inter-modal facilities, airports and transit hubs.

Growth Plan Concern about the rate of growth in A planning vision for the Greater Golden Horseshoe Region to 2031 has been Southern Ontario. outlined in the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (2006). Among other policy directions, the Growth Plan identifies the need to plan for infrastructure to support growth and for better transportation linkages between Urban Growth Centres. Within the GTA West Corridor Study Area, these Urban Growth Centres include Brampton City Centre, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Milton, and Downtown Guelph. We encourage you to review the Growth Plan. A copy can be found at www.placestogrow.ca.

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APPENDIX C CURRENT CONTENT OF THE PROJECT WEBSITE

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APPENDIX D NEWSPAPER NOTIFICATIONS

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3 GTA West Corridor - Environmental Assessment (EA) Study - Stage 1

The public is invited to attend the third round of Public Information Centres (PICs) to review and comment on the transportation alternatives under consideration in the GTA West corridor. Study team members will be available to answer questions and receive comments. PIC #3 will be held at:

Mon., November 30, 2009 Thurs., December 3, 2009 Tues., December 8, 2009 Thurs., December 10, 2009 River Run Centre – Mold-Master Sportsplex – Brampton Fairgrounds – Le Jardin Special Events Centre – Canada Company Hall Alcott Hall Hall Le Parisien Room 35 Woolwich St. 221 Guelph St. 12942 Heart Lake Rd. 8440 Highway 27 Guelph, ON Georgetown, ON Caledon, ON Woodbridge, ON 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Information presented at the PICs will be available on the study website beginning on November 30, 2009. Comments may also be submitted via the study website at www.gta-west.com THE STUDY The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has initiated Stage 1 of the formal Environmental Assessment (EA) Study for the GTA West Corridor to support the transportation objectives of the provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe by providing for the efficient movement of people and goods. Stage 1 of the EA Study includes the following key steps: UÊ ìÛi«Ê >Ê Ê /iÀÃÊ vÊ ,iviÀiViÊ Ì >ÌÊ Ê }ÕìÃÊ Ì iÊ Ê Study (PIC #1); UÊidentify transportation problems and opportunities (PIC #2); UÊìÌvÞÊ>`Ê>ÃÃiÃÃÊÌÀ>Ã«ÀÌ>ÌÊ>ÌiÀ>ÌÛiÃÊÌ >ÌÊ>``ÀiÃÃÊ the identified problems and opportunities (PIC #3); and UÊÃiiVÌÊ «ÀiviÀÀi`Ê ÌÀ>Ã«ÀÌ>ÌÊ >ÌiÀ>ÌÛiÃ®Ê >`Ê recommend a multi-modal Transportation Development Strategy for future work (PIC #4). THE PROCESS The study is being undertaken as an Individual EA in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (EA Act)Ê>`ÊÌ iÊ/Ê7iÃÌÊ ÀÀ`ÀÊ/iÀÃÊvÊ,iviÀiViÊ /,®]Ê Ü V Ê Ü>ÃÊ >««ÀÛi`Ê LÞÊ Ì iÊ "Ì>ÀÊ ÃÌiÀÊ vÊ Ì iÊ Environment on March 4, 2008. COMMENTS Comments and information regarding this study will be collected to assist the MTO. This material will be maintained on file for use during the project and may be included in project documentation to meet the requirements of the EA Act. Comment forms and study information are available on the project website: www.gta-west.com. Information collected will be used in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record. For further information, or to be added to the mailing list, please visit the study website or contact: Mr. Jin Wang, Project Co-ordinator Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng., Consultant Project Manager Ontario Ministry of Transportation McCormick Rankin Corporation Provincial and Environmental Planning Office 2655 North Sheridan Way 301 St. Paul Street, 2nd Floor Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8 St. Catharines, ON L2R 7R4 Tel.: 905-823-8500 Tel.: 905-704-2117 Fax: 905-823-8503 Fax: 905-704-2007 Please visit our website at: www.gta-west.com Contact us by e-mail: [email protected] or via our toll-free number at: 1-877-522-6916.

Job#: O21-ECO-206.indd Version: 1C Date: 2009-11-09 2:41PM Operator: jun Size: 6" X 8.375 in Lines: 118 Page: 1 AVIS DU GOUVERNEMENT DE L'ONTARIO AVIS DE SÉANCE D’INFORMATION PUBLIQUE NO 3 Couloir routier RGT Ouest – Étude d’évaluation environnementale Stage 1

Le public est invité à participer à la troisième série de séances d’information publiques (SIP) visant à examiner les alternatives de transport à privilégier dans le couloir routier RGT Ouest et à apporter des commentaires à ce sujet.

Des membres de l’équipe de projet seront présents pour répondre aux questions et recueillir les commentaires. La SIP no 3 sera tenue les :

Lundi 30 novembre 2009 Jeudi 3 décembre 2009 Mardi 6 décembre 2009 Jeudi 10 décembre 2009 Centre River Run – Complexe sportif Brampton Fairgrounds – Centre d’événements Canada Company Hall Mold-Master – Hall Le Jardin Special – 35, rue Woolwich Alcott Hall 12942, rue Heart Lake Salle Le Parisien Guelph (Ontario) 221, rue Guelph Caledon (Ontario) 8440, route 27 Georgetown (Ontario) Woodbridge (Ontario)

De 16 h à 20 h De 16 h à 20 h De 16 h à 20 h De 16 h à 20 h

L’information présentée lors de la SIP sera disponible sur le site Web de l’étude à compter du 30 novembre 2009. Les commentaires peuvent également être acheminés par le biais du site Web de l’étude au www.gta-west.com. L’ÉTUDE Le Ministère des Transports de l’Ontario (MTO) a formellement lancé le premier stage de l’étude d’évaluation environnementale (ÉE) pour le couloir routier RGT Ouest afin de respecter les objectifs de transport du Plan de croissance de la région élargie de Golden Horseshoe en favorisant le déplacement efficace des gens et des biens à l’intérieur du couloir. Le stage 1 de l’ÉE comprend les principales étapes : UÊj>LÀiÀÊ ÕÊ >`>ÌÊ ÃiÀÛ>ÌÊ DÊ }ÕìÀÊ ½jÌÕìÊ `½ Ê (SIP no 1); UÊidentifier des problèmes et des opportunités de transport (SIP no 2); UÊìÌviÀÊ iÌÊ j>LÀiÀÊ ìÃÊ >ÌiÀ>ÌÛiÃÊ ìÊ ÌÀ>Ã«ÀÌÊ µÕÊ répondent aux problèmes et aux opportunités identifiés (SIP no 3); et UÊÃjiVÌiÀÊ ½>ÌiÀ>ÌÛiÊ ÕÊ iÃÊ >ÌiÀ>ÌÛiÃÊ ìÊ ÌÀ>Ã«ÀÌÊ préférée(s) et la recommandation d’une stratégie de développement du transport multimodale pour les travaux ultérieurs (SIP no 4). LE PROCESSUS L’étude est menée individuellement conformément à la Loi sur les évaluations environnementales de l’Ontario (EA Act) et au mandat visant le couloir routier de RGT Ouest qui a été approuvé par le Ministre de l’Environnement le 4 mars 2008. COMMENTAIRES Les commentaires et l’information concernant cette étude seront recueillis afin de soutenir le MTO dans ses démarches. Ces données seront conservées au dossier tout au long du projet à des fins d’utilisation, et pourraient être incluses à la documentation du projet afin de répondre aux exigences de la Loi sur les évaluations environnementales. Des formulaires de commentaires et toute l’information concernant l’étude sont disponibles sur le site Web de l’étude au www.gta-west.com. L’information recueillie jun

sera utilisée conformément à la Loi sur l’accès à l’information et la protection de la vie privée et à la Loi sur l’accès à l’information. 1b

Exception faite de l’information de nature personnelle (p. ex., les noms et adresses), tous les commentaires recueillis seront 1 archivés et rendus publics. Operator: Version: Version: Pour de plus amples renseignements ou pour vous inscrire à la liste d’envoi, consultez le site Web de l’étude ou communiquez avec : Page: M. Jin Wang, Coordonnateur de projet M. Neil Ahmed, P.Eng., Chef de projet consultant

Ministère des Transports de l’Ontario McCormick Rankin Corporation 139 Bureau de la planification provinciale 2655, chemin North Sheridan

et environnementale Mississauga (Ontario) L5K 2P8 Lines: 301, rue St. Paul, 2e étage Tel.: (905) 823-8500 St. Catharines (Ontario) L2R 7R4 Téléc. : (905) 823-8503 Tél. : (905) 704-2117 Téléc. : (905) 704-2007 9.8626 in Vous êtes invité à visiter notre site Web au www.gta-west.com. X

Vous pouvez communiquer avec nous par courriel à l’adresse [email protected] ou en composant 2009-11-09 2:48:00 notre numéro sans frais : 1 (877) 522-6916. 6" O21-ECO-206F.indd Size: Job#: Date:

APPENDIX E RELEASE OF PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES REPORT NOTIFICATION MATERIALS

July 31, 2009

«Title» «FirstName» «LastName» «JobTitle» «Address1» «Address2» «City», «State» «PostalCode»

RE: GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment (EA) Study Release of Draft Area Transportation System Problems & Opportunities Report

Dear «Salutation» «LastName»:

Given your previous interest in the above-noted study we are pleased to inform you of the release of the Draft Area Transportation System Problems & Opportunities Report. The report summarizes the process and methodology that was used to identify transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West Corridor and documents the key findings of this work. The report also provides further detail and background information on the transportation problems and opportunities that were presented at the March 2009 Public Information Centres.

The report is available to download on the study website at: www.gta-west.com. The website also features the most up-to-date information on the study schedule and consultation and outreach events.

We look forward to your input and comments on the draft report. Written comments can be provided on the project website at http://www.gta-west.com/comment-form.php or can be sent to:

Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng., Consultant Project Manager McCormick Rankin Corporation 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8 Fax: 905-823-8503 Email: [email protected]

Thank you for your on-going interest in the GTA West Corridor EA Study. We look forward to your comments.

Sincerely,

______Mr. Jin Wang Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng. Project Coordinator Consultant Project Manager Provincial and Environmental Planning Office McCormick Rankin Corporation Ontario Ministry of Transportation

Christiani, Catherine

From: GTA West Project Team [[email protected]] Sent: July 31, 2009 7:13 PM To: 'GTA West Project Team' Subject: GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study: Release of Draft Area Transportation System Problems & Opportunities Report Attachments: GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment - Problems & Opp Notification Letter.pdf

Please find attached a letter regarding the release of the Draft Area Transportation System Problems & Opportunities Report for the GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study.

Sincerely,

The GTA West Project Team

July 31, 2009

RE: GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study Release of Draft Area Transportation System Problems & Opportunities Report

Dear Sir/Madam:

The entire report can be downloaded from the study website at: www.gta-west.com. The website also features the most up-to-date information on the study schedule and consultation and outreach events.

We look forward to your input and comments on the draft report. Written comments can be provided on the project website at http://www.gta-west.com/comment-form.php or can be sent to:

Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng., Consultant Project Manager McCormick Rankin Corporation 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300 Mississauga, ON L5K 2P8 Fax: 905-823-8503 Email: [email protected]

Thank you for your on going interest in the GTA West Corridor EA Study. We look forward to your comments.

Sincerely,

______Mr. Jin Wang Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng. Project Coordinator Consultant Project Manager Provincial and Environmental Planning Office McCormick Rankin Corporation Ontario Ministry of Transportation

APPENDIX F PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3 NOTIFICATION MATERIALS

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3 GTA West Corridor - Environmental Assessment (EA) Study - Stage 1

Job#: O21-ECO-206.indd Version: 1C Date: 2009-11-09 2:41PM Operator: jun Size: 6" X 8.375 in Lines: 118 Page: 1 McCormick Rankin Corporation 2655 North Sheridan Way Mississauga, ON Canada L5K 2P8 Tel: 905.823.8500 Fax: 905.823.2669

November 13, 2009

«Title» «FirstName» «LastName» «JobTitle» «Address1» «Address2» «City», «State» «PostalCode»

Dear «Salutation» «LastName»:

RE: GTA West Corridor Planning and Environmental Assessment (EA) Study Public Information Centre Round #3

We are pleased to advise you that the third round of Public Information Centres (PICs) will be held to invite the public to review and comment on the transportation alternatives under consideration in the GTA West Corridor.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has initiated Stage 1 of the formal Environmental Assessment (EA) Study for the GTA West Corridor to support the transportation objectives of the provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe by providing for the efficient movement of people and goods.

The purpose of this Study is to examine long-term transportation problems and opportunities and consider alternative solutions to provide better linkages between Urban Growth Centres within the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area. The Project Team has recently developed and assessed a range of transportation improvement options to address the identified transportation problems and opportunities in the corridor. This is an important step in the completion of a multi-modal Transportation Development Strategy.

The dates, times and locations of the third round of PICs are:

Mon November 30, 2009 Thurs December 3, 2009 Tues December 8, 2009 Thus December 10, 2009 River Run Centre – Mold-Master Sportsplex Brampton Fairgrounds – Le Jardin Special Events Canada Company Hall – Alcott Hall Hall Centre – Le Parisien 35 Woolwich St 221 Guelph St 12942 Heart Lake Rd Room Guelph, ON Georgetown, ON Caledon, ON 8440 Highway 27 Woodbridge, ON 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

../2

McCormick Rankin Corporation 2655 North Sheridan Way Mississauga, ON Canada L5K 2P8 Tel: 905.823.8500 Fax: 905.823.2669

- 2 -

The PICs will be conducted as a drop-in format from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Members of the Project Team will be available to discuss the study and to respond to questions or concerns.

Should you require further information, please contact Mr. Jin Wang, Project Coordinator with the Ministry of Transportation, at 905-704-2117, or Mr. Neil Ahmed, the Consultant Project Manager with McCormick Rankin Corporation, at 905-823-8500. You can also contact us through our toll-free number: 1-877-522-6916 or via the project website: www.gta-west.com.

We are committed to proactive consultation with interested stakeholders throughout the study and we look forward to your ongoing and effective participation.

Thank you for your interest in this important study.

Sincerely,

______Mr. Jin Wang Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng. Project Coordinator Consultant Project Manager Provincial and Environmental Planning Office McCormick Rankin Corporation Ontario Ministry of Transportation

cc. Shelley Tapp - MTO

Christiani, Catherine

From: GTA West Project Team [[email protected]] Sent: November 17, 2009 4:37 PM To: 'GTA West Project Team' Subject: GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study - Public Information Centre #3 Attachments: GTAW PIC 3 Notification Letter - November 17 2009.pdf

PleasefindattachedaPublicInformationCentre#3NotificationLetterinregardstotheGTAWestCorridor EnvironmentalAssessmentStudy. Sincerely, TheGTAWestProjectTeam

1 McCormick Rankin Corporation 2655 North Sheridan Way Mississauga, ON Canada L5K 2P8 Tel: 905.823.8500 Fax: 905.823.2669

November 16, 2009

RE: GTA West Corridor Planning and Environmental Assessment (EA) Study Public Information Centre Round #3

Dear Sir/Madam:

The dates, times and locations of the third round of PICs are:

The PICs will be conducted as a drop-in format from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Members of the Project Team will be available to discuss the study and to respond to questions or concerns.

../2

McCormick Rankin Corporation 2655 North Sheridan Way Mississauga, ON Canada L5K 2P8 Tel: 905.823.8500 Fax: 905.823.2669

- 2 -

We are committed to proactive consultation with interested stakeholders throughout the study and we look forward to your ongoing and effective participation.

Thank you for your interest in this important study.

Sincerely,

______Mr. Jin Wang Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng. Project Coordinator Consultant Project Manager Provincial and Environmental Planning Office McCormick Rankin Corporation Ontario Ministry of Transportation

cc. Shelley Tapp - MTO

APPENDIX G PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3 DISPLAY PANELS

GTA West Public Information Centre #3

Welcome to Public Information Centre #3

Members of the Project Team are available to discuss your comments and questions

Please sign in

McCORMICK RANKIN CORPORATION GTA West 4 Intermodal TDM / TSM Intermodal transportation section of the display Individual Mode Alternatives Marine single mode Refer to: Freight Rail PIC #3 Summary CORPORATION McCORMICK RANKIN STAGE 1 - KEY OUTCOME STAGE Air the transportation Problems and Opportunitiesthe transportation Problems Transit Roads & Highways) No single transportation mode is capable of fully addressing No single transportation mode is capable

alternatives (e.g. one of Freight Rail, Marine, Air, Demand Transportation Management / System Management, Transportation Transit, Facilities or Modal Improvement Alternatives High level assessment was carried out for Elements of single mode alternatives are carried forward to form Groups What If We Only Improve One Transportation Mode? Only Improve One Transportation What If We ? ? 4: Individual Mode Alternatives Mode Individual 4: 2 Service Providers Transportation Business & Commercial Stakeholders STAGE 3 STAGE Alternatives Evaluation of Examination and Preliminary Planning Upper Tier Councils Upper Tier First Nations Brampton Züm STAGE 2 STAGE Assessment of Groups of Modal Examination and To what extent does the To Group of Modal Improvement Alternatives meet the transportation objectives of this Study? High level assessment of Environmental, Economic and Community factors. Improvement Alternatives Analysis Public Centres Metrolinx RTP Information GTA-West Project Team GTA-West section of the display Air Roads & Highways Freight Rail Intermodal Group Planned Many Improvements Have Already Been Advisory Municipal Individual STAGE 1 STAGE Alternatives Group Assessment of (TSM) (TDM) Advisory Examination and System Marine Transit Demand Community Management Management Transportation Transportation Group Agency Advisory Regulatory Refer to: GO 2020 33 33 section and others of the display Process Framework section of the display Previous Consultation 5-year Service Plan

York VIVAYork 2010 to 2015 Refer to: Refer to: To support the generation and To Starts with high level of assessment Following PIC #3, more detailed assessment of transportation alternatives evaluation will be carried out to further refine and screen out alternatives in advance of Stage 3

A variety of stakeholders have provided This Study builds on planned There is an extensive list of planned improvement initiatives by Metrolinx (in the Regional Plan and Transportation GO 2020) improvements in optimizing the existing road network and non-road infrastructure ideas on possible alternatives

There Has Been Extensive Consultation ? Three Stage Process ? ? ? Many Improvements Have Already Been Planned ? ?

Previous Consultation Previous

2: Background 2:

3: Process Framework and Framework Process 3: I

I I

I I I I

I I I I I I

I I I

II I I I I I I I I I

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I 427 I

I I I

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407 I 400 409 I I I I I I I I I I I QEW II I I TORONTO

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I Lake Ontario I I Oakville

Vaughan

I I I I Nobleton

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I I Burlington I Mississauga

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I I I I I I 407 I I I I I I I I I 407 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Bolton I I I I I 2010 STUDY AREA

I Brampton I I PRELIMINARY I I I I I I I I I I I Milton I I I I I I I I I I I

PEEL I I I

I I I I 9 I I I I

Caledon I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

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I HALTON I I I I I I 10

Georgetown I I I I

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I I Strategy I I

401 I

I 6 I I I I

I I I I

I Acton

I Development

I I HAMILTON I Transportation I 10 I I I I Erin I I I I I 7 I I I I I I I I

12 km I I I

6 I I

I Guelph NORTH I I

Orangeville I I

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I I 0 I I DUFFERIN WELLINGTON

6 I I I I

I Cambridge

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89 I I I I

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85 I I

I 7 WATERLOO Kitchener I Waterloo I PIC 3 HERE WE ARE Alternatives of the fastest growing regions in North America. It is also the destination of choice for many people and businesses relocating from other parts of Canada and around the world. They settle here because of the high quality life and the economic opportunities Horseshoe will continue to experience the benefits that come with growth, including vibrant, diversified communities and economies; new expanded community services; and arts, culture and recreation facilities growth, communities will continue to experience the negative aspects associated with rapid growth, such as congestion, increased traffic and deteriorating air and water quality, the disappearance of agricultural lands and natural resources The Greater Golden Horseshoe is one Communities within the Greater Golden without properly managing However, ? ? ? Planning for Growth 2 2 2011 2031 2021 2001 2011 2031 2021 2001 PIC 2 County of County of Wellington Wellington City of Guelph/ City of Guelph/ Problems & and Opportunities Transportation Halton Halton Region of Region of for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2006 Peel Peel section of the display Region of Region of est Growth Plan PIC 1 section of the display Study Purpose, Process, Schedule Source: York York Distribution of Population for the GGH 2001-2031 Region of Region of Distribution of Employment for the GGH 2001-2031 Policy Context / Summary of Problems from PIC #2 2007 Terms of Reference Terms 0 0 500 500 Refer to:

1000 2000 1500 1000

address the Problems and Opportunities presented at PIC #2 (March 2009) alternatives, and alternatives

Present alternatives that were developed to Provide a high level assessment of the Receive public input prior to evaluation of (in thousands) (in (in thousands) (in

Employment Current Focus: Transportation Alternatives The focus of Public Information Centre #3 is to: ? ? ? Population Refer to:

GTA W 2: Background 2: PIC #3 Summary

Single Mode Improvements Are Not Enough What is Group #2? – We Need To Combine Them Group #1 Optimize Existing Networks Group #2 Alternatives include Group #1 Alternatives plus new / improved non-roadway What is Group #4? ? Transit ? Marine ? Rail ? TDM ? Roads & Highways ? TSM infrastructure (e.g. related to transit, rail and air). Group #2 Alternatives include: ? Air ? Intermodal ? Combine various elements of the single ? Group #4 Alternatives include elements from Groups #1, Group #4-1 mode alternatives ?Additional expanded and improved parking facilities at transit stations #2 and #3 Group #2 ?New bus storage in Aberfoyle ? Groups of Modal Improvement New / Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure − Metrolinx RTP ? GO 2020 ? Group #1 plus Other Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and strategies initiatives Alternatives were assessed at a ? Transit − GO 2020 ? (See display 2: Many Improvements Have Already Been Planned) strategies high level to determine likely Rail ?Freight Rail, Air and Marine initiatives to be pursued by others − Transportation Demand Management programs advantages and disadvantages of (see display 4: Individual Mode Alternatives) − each based on a variety of features Group #3 Group #4 ?Rapid Transit New bus rapid transit links between Widen / Improve Roads Comparison of Advantages New Transportation Corridors Group #4-2 Group #4-3 and criteria and Disadvantages Urban Growth Centres ? Environment - Steeles Ave. area (Lisgar GO to Highway 427) ? Group #2 plus ? Elements of Group #3 plus ? ? Widen / Improve Roads & Highways Community ? New Transportation Corridors ? Economy - Highway 427 (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Queen Street) − ? Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes Transportation Refer to: Groups of Modal Improvement - Hurontario St. (Port Credit to Downtown Brampton) Alternatives 5 − Inter-regional transit hubs where local section of the display - 407ETR (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Highway 427) - Finch Ave. West (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Finch Station) transit and GO Transit connect KEY QUESTION KEY QUESTION - Highway 10 (Mayfield West to Downtown Brampton) (i.e. Guelph) Can Group #1 on its own significantly Can Group #2 on its own significantly - Highway 7 (Peel-York boundary to Locust Hill/Markham) − Widening of existing highways Group #4-4 Group #4-5 address the Problems and address the Problems and Strategies - 407ETR (Halton to Durham) ? New corridor from Highway 400 to Opportunities in the Study Area? Opportunities in the Study Area? - Trafalgar Rd. / Main St. (Downtown Milton to 407ETR) - Brampton Züm (Downtown Brampton to Peel-York Boundary) Highway 410, with possible connections ? to Highway 401 east or west of Milton What is Group #1? ?Regional Rail Service Metrolinx RTP & GO 2020 - Bolton from Union Station ? New corridor from Highway 401 east to The following individual ideas form the basis for Group #1: - Expansion of the Georgetown north corridor Downtown Brampton / Milton Highway 6 (north or south of Guelph) -Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station ?Improved access to transit stations for pedestrians, - Service extension from Milton to Cambridge Group #2 alternatives do not

5: Groups of Modal cyclists and motorists Alternatives Improvement ?Express Rail fully address the

5: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives Improvement ?Improved integration of active transportation opportunities - Richmond Hill / Langstaff Gateway to Union Station transportation Problems and

5: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives Improvement Alternatives under Group #4 Modal Improvement and transit (e.g. secure storage facilities at transit stations, - Downtown Brampton to Union Station Opportunities. They will Refer to: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives Alternatives will be examined and evaluated in bicycle storage on transit vehicles, etc) therefore be carried forward section of the display 5 further detail following PIC #3 (i.e. Stage 3 of the ?Expanded use of roadway shoulders during peak travel for further consideration in Transportation Alternatives Assessment Process) periods combination with Group #3 alternatives ?Improved scheduling and fare integration between inter- ?Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes regional and local transit providers ? Strategies Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph) ?Use of real time trip planning information technologies for ? Our Next Steps transit users and drivers New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres (Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph) ?Increased / improved transit service frequency Strategies ? Evaluate a short list of Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives in more detail

Metrolinx RTP & GO 2020 ? Evaluation will determine the general impacts on socio-economic, natural ?Speed harmonization – reduced speeds during times of Project Team GTAW environment, cultural environment and transportation congestion facilitate improved traffic flow (e.g. lane More is needed to sufficiently control signs) What is Group #3? Group #3-1 Group #3-2 address transportation EVALUATE ? EVALUATE GENERATE ASSESS AND SELECT RECOMMEND Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs Problems and Opportunities. ? - Provincial co-ordination and employer sponsorship of Group #3 Alternatives include Group #1 improvements will Generation of elements from Groups #1 and #2 Evaluation and programs improves the effectiveness of TDM initiatives Preliminary therefore be carried forward Assessment of Selection of the Recommended Planning (e.g. Smart Commute) − Evaluation of Preliminary Preferred Transportation for further consideration in Metrolinx RTP PIC #3 Alternatives for PIC #4 Alternatives Planning Preliminary Development ? the Preferred Ramp metering systems – regulated auto access to combination with Group #2 − GO 2020 Alternatives Planning Strategy strategies Group of sections of freeway reducing local congestion Alternative alternatives − Transportation Demand Alternatives ? Group #3-3 Transit / HOV bypass locations – bypass lanes using Steps 6: Next metered ramps and direct ramp access to transit Management / Transportation Strategies System Management programs stations/carpool lots for HOV and transit vehicles What Will Be Shown At the Next PIC? ?Incident management and detection – improved − New bus rapid transit links between GTAW Project Team GTAW detection and response to emergencies/incidents for Urban Growth Centres photo ? Generation and Evaluation of Preliminary Planning Alternatives more timely clearance − Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes ? ? Recommended alternative(s) to be carried forward to Stage 2 of the EA process Operational improvements at localized bottlenecks to − ease traffic flow Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph) Refer to: Next Steps section of the display 6 ? Widened provincial highways Alternatives under Group #3 Modal Improvement (Highway 401, 410, 427, 400) and 407ETR Alternatives will be examined and evaluated in further detail following PIC #3 (i.e. Stage 3 of McCORMICK RANKIN GTA West OR WITH Transportation Alternatives Assessment Process) CORPORATION ? Widened regional / county roads 2 BACKGROUND Study Purpose, Process, and Schedule

Public Information Centre #3: The focus of Public Information Centre (PIC) #3 is to: • Present alternatives that were developed to address the WeWe encourageencourage youyou toto getget Problems and Opportunities presented at PIC #2 (March 2009) involvedinvolved inin thisthis studystudy byby • Provide a high level assessment of the alternatives providingproviding usus withwith youryour • Receive public input prior to evaluation of alternatives comments.comments.

Study Purpose To proactively plan for future infrastructure needs by examining long-term transportation Problems and Opportunities to the year 2031 and consider options to provide better linkages between Urban Growth Centres in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area, including Downtown Guelph, Downtown Milton, Brampton City Centre and Vaughan Corporate Centre as identified in the Growth Plan.

The Study Includes: • Examining the need for additional transportation capacity • Identifying transportation Problems and Opportunities • Developing, assessing, and evaluating transportation system options (all modes) to address identified Problems and Opportunities • Recommending a Transportation Development Strategy for the corridor

Study Process Individual Environmental Assessment

The Study Process was approved by EA Terms Selection of Class EA for of EA Stage 1 Alternatives EA Stage 2 Design & the Ministry of the Environment in Reference Construction Construction

March 2008 as part of the Terms of Alternatives To Alternatives Methods Reference document. We are Here

Alternatives to be MOE MOE Environmental Pursued by Review / Review / Clearance Approval Other Approval Jurisdictions

MOE - Ministry of the Environment EA - Environmental Assessment Alternatives To = Options Schedule 2 BACKGROUND Policy Context

Planning for Growth • The Greater Golden Horseshoe is one of the fastest growing regions in North America. It is also the destination of choice for many people and businesses relocating from other parts of Canada and around the world. They settle here because of the high quality of life and the economic opportunities • Communities within the Greater Golden Horseshoe will continue to experience the benefits that come with growth, including: vibrant, diversified communities and economies; new and expanded community services; and arts, culture and recreation facilities • However, without properly managing growth, communities will continue to experience the negative aspects associated with rapid growth, such as increased traffic congestion, deteriorating air and water quality, and the disappearance of agricultural lands and natural resources Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) • The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, released in 2006, is a 25-year plan that sets out a vision and strategic policy direction for managing growth in the Greater Golden Horseshoe • The Growth Plan aims to: –Revitalize downtowns to become vibrant and convenient centres –Create complete communities that offer more options for living, working, learning, shopping and playing –Provide housing options to meet the needs of people at any age –Curb sprawl and protect farmland and green spaces –Reduce traffic gridlock by improving access to a greater range of transportation options –Promote public transit as the first priority in transportation planning and investments for moving people, and efficient goods movement by linking intermodal facilities, international gateways and communities

TheThe Growth Growth Plan Plan contains contains the the following following transportation transportation policies: policies: •• ProvideProvide connectivity connectivity among among transportation transportation modes modes •• OfferOffer a a balance balance of of transportation transportation choices choices to to promote promote sustainable sustainable modes modes •• EncourageEncourage the the most most financially financially an andd environmentally environmentally appropriate appropriate mode mode •• OfferOffer multi-modal multi-modal access access to to everyday everyday needs needs •• ProvideProvide for for the the safety safety of of system system users users

Context of Growth Plan

Distribution of Population for the GGH 2001-2031 Distribution of Employment for the GGH 2001-2031

2031 2000 2031 1000 2021 2021 2011 2011 1500 2001 2001

1000 500

500 Population (in thousands) (in Population Employment (in thousands) 0 Region of York Region of Peel Region of Halton City of Guelph/ 0 Region of York Region of Peel Region of City of Guelph/ County of Halton County of Wellington Wellington Source: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2006

ThereThere will will be be significant significant growth growth ••PopulationPopulation of of the the GGH GGH will will grow grow from from 7.8 7.8 to11.5 to11.5 million million people people by by 2031 2031 ••EmploymentEmployment in in the the GGH GGH will will grow grow from from 3.8 3.8 to to 5.6 5.6 million million jobs jobs by by 2031 2031 (Source:(Source: Growth Growth Plan Plan for for the the Greater Greater Golden Golden Horseshoe Horseshoe 2006) 2006) WeWe must must plan plan for for the the future future Reference Table: ••ThisThis growth growth will will lead lead to to more more commute commuter,r, tourism tourism and and freight freight trips. trips. We We See the Places to Grow mustmust plan plan now now to to accommodate accommodate these these additional additional trips trips more more efficiently efficiently Report at the Reference inin the the future future years years Table 2 BACKGROUND Policy Context

Greenbelt Plan The Project Team will fully integrate the goals, objectives and policy requirements of the Greenbelt Plan into the study process in accordance with the infrastructure policies set out in the Greenbelt Plan, including: • Optimize, where practical, the existing capacity and coordination with different infrastructure services • Avoid key natural heritage features or key hydrologic features unless need has been demonstrated and it has been established that there is no reasonable alternative • Minimize, wherever possible, the amount of the Greenbelt, and particularly the Natural Heritage System, traversed Reference Table: and/or occupied by infrastructure See the Greenbelt • Minimize, wherever possible, the negative impacts and Plan Report at the disturbance of the existing landscape Reference Table

TheThe Greenbelt Greenbelt is is a a cornerstone cornerstone of of Ontari Ontarioo Greater Greater Golden Golden Horseshoe Horseshoe Growth Growth Plan Plan whichwhich is is an an overarching overarching strategy strategy that that will will provide provide clarity clarity and and certainty certainty about about urbanurban structure, structure, where where and and how how future future growth growth should should be be accommodated, accommodated, and and whatwhat must must be be protected protected for for cu currentrrent and and future future generations. generations.

Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) • Guides land use within an area defined by the Niagara Escarpment, from the Bruce Peninsula in the north to the Niagara River in the south • Limits development within the NEP area through limitations on new lot creation and on permitted uses. The intent is to balance development with preservation and public use. Official plans are required to conform to the NEP and establish land use designations, policies and criteria for the protection of lands within their policy areas.

TheThe Niagara Niagara Escarpment Escarpment is is classified classified as as a a UNESCO UNESCO World World Reference Table: BiosphereBiosphere Reserve. Reserve. The The 194,340 194,340 ha ha of of Escarpment Escarpment land land is is managed/governedmanaged/governed by by the the Niagara Niagara Escarpment Escarpment Commission Commission See the Niagara (NEC) and the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP). According to the Escarpment Plan Report (NEC) and the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP). According to the at the Reference Table NEC,NEC, it it is is one one of of only only 13 13 biosphere biosphere reserves reserves in in Canada. Canada.

Other policies applicable to the GTA West Study • Provincial Policy Statement • Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan • Official Plans of municipalities within the Preliminary Study Area: York Region City of Guelph Peel Region County of Wellington Halton Region BACKGROUND Summary of Problems 2 from PIC #2

Future Transportation Problems Tourism and recreational travel rely on Highway 401 Commuters and Highway 400 to reach major tourist and recreational destinations. Transit System Service • Limited integration between local and inter-regional transit outside GTHA • Limited community to community transit service • Passenger rail services conflict with freight for use of rail capacity • Buses are impacted by road congestion Road System Constraints • Congestion during weekday commuting periods • Travel time for commuter trips will increase and become lessless predictablepredictable • Variability and duration of travel times on the area road system Tourism and Recreation

Transit System Service • Inadequate transit connections between tourist gateways (e.g. airports, rail stations) and major tourist destinations • Public transit schedules cater to commuters rather than tourists • Limited multi-modal connections (e.g. rail stations, airports) to key destinations • Lack of choice to use transit Road System Constraints • Travel delays during peak tourist/recreation travel times • Unpredictable travel times on inter-regional roads result when incidents occur • Inadequate road connections between tourist gateways (e.g. airports, rail stations) and major tourist destinations • Truck traffic conflicts with tourist/recreation travel in the Summer months

Goods Movement ByBy 2031, 2031, traffic traffic volumes volumes on on Highways Highways 401, 401, 400, 400, 427 427 and and 410 410 areare all all forecast forecast to to increase increase substantially. substantially. The The increase increase in in Truck traffictraffic volume volume will will further further increase increase road road congestion congestion in in the the • Travel delays during peak periods GTAGTA West West Preliminary Preliminary Study Study Area. Area. • Unpredictable travel times on inter-regional roads result when incidents occur • Insufficient road connections between commercial centres and other modal systems • Diversion of inter-regional trucks to local roads Freight Rail • Few rail connections between growth areas • Conflicts with passenger transit for use of rail capacity • Track capacity constrained in some areas HighwayHighway 401 401 is is the the largest largest and and busiest busiest Marine highwayhighway in in the the GTA GTA West West Preliminary Preliminary • Large ocean vessels unable to enter the St. Lawrence StudyStudy Area. Area. Highways Highways 410, 410, 427 427 and and Seaway System results in goods being transferred to rail 400 are also key highway links. All of or truck 400 are also key highway links. All of • Winter Seaway closure limits shipping season thesethese links links are are heavily heavily used used for for goods goods • Inadequate connections between inland ports and the movement.movement. Currently Currently all all 400-series 400-series inter-regional road system highwayshighways have have major major peak peak period period Air congestioncongestion in in the the area. area. • Limited runway capacity at Toronto Pearson International Airport • Limited multi-modal connections to airports at present 2 BACKGROUND Transportation Opportunities

What are Future Transportation Opportunities?

Opportunities are found where improvements or enhancements to the transportation system allow for the enhancement or protection of the environment, economy and/or community. Opportunities go beyond addressing the specific transportation problems and are intended to create: • Compact, vibrant and complete communities • A prosperous and competitive economy • A protected environment

Support future municipal land use planning in accordance with the Growth Plan • Coordinating with municipalities within the Preliminary Study Area with regard to future land use allocation and to coordinate the development of the transportation alternatives with the planning work that is being undertaken by these municipalities

Maintain the character and integrity of rural and agricultural lands • Focus population and employment growth in Urban Growth Centres, Built Up Areas, and Designated Greenfield Areas • Due regard for policy documents like the Greenbelt Act and Plan, the Niagara Escarpment Act and Plan and the Oak Ridges Moraine Act and Plan

Provide Transportation Choice, Improved Connections and Increased Reliability for Commuters Build on the Metrolinx RTP and GO 2020 to provide commuters real alternatives to the automobile throughout the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Provide improved transportation services for commuters in the Study Area, which may reduce the pressure on the highway system • Provide expanded transit services and improved connections between inter-regional transit services and local transit services • Make commuter travel more convenient and flexible • Incorporate active transportation alternatives such as bicycle storage at transit terminals and aboard transit vehicles

Provide transportation choice, improved connections and increased reliability for goods movement Encourage use of other modes of travel for goods movement (e.g. rail, marine and air), as well as provide better connections between these modes • Improve connections between Toronto Pearson International Airport and related clusters of logistics uses, industries and urban centres

Provide improved transportation service for tourists • Provide improved connection and greater modal choice for tourists arriving at gateways such as the Pearson International Airport and destined to the GTA West Preliminary Study Area • Facilitating active transportation in these services • Improving transportation system operations to enhance tourism and recreational trip experience

Optimize existing transportation infrastructure • Reduce/shift trip making and automobile usage while optimizing use of the existing system • Encourage increased vehicle occupancy, such as HOV lanes and carpool lots along 400-series highways • Use of changeable message signs, highway cameras, and “real time” adaptive transportation systems to provide “real time” information on traffic conditions • Speed harmonization, high occupancy toll lanes and road pricing • Upgrades to at-grade rail-to-rail and road-to-rail crossings to improve travel flows and safety • Designate and preserve lands within settlement areas in the vicinity of existing major highway interchanges, ports, rail yards and airports as areas for manufacturing, warehousing and associated retail, office and ancillary facilities, where appropriate (Growth Plan Policy 2.2.6.9 & 3.2.4.6)

Minimize impacts to the natural, social, economic and cultural environments This can be done through planning that: • Optimizes the use of existing infrastructure • Gives due regard to the requirements of approved provincial environmental protection policies, when developing, assessing and evaluating all reasonable transportation alternative • Opportunities to minimize and potentially avoid impacts to important natural, social, economic and cultural environmental features in the earliest planning stages BACKGROUND Many Improvements Have 2 Already Been Planned

Metrolinx: The Big Move Metrolinx was created by the Ontario government to develop and implement an integrated multi-modal transportation plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). A significant part of its mandate has been the creation of The Big Move, the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) for the GTHA that includes a comprehensive transit network. In 2009, Metrolinx merged with GO Transit to become one agency with both planning and operations responsibilities. The Big Move addresses all forms of transportation – roads, transit, cycling and walking, including a proposal to build 1200 km of rapid transit, resulting in an extensive transit system with connected mobility hubs. Within the first 15 years of the Regional Transportation Reference Table: Plan (RTP) implementation, priorities for early See The Big Move implementation inside the GTA West Preliminary Report at the Reference Study Area include: Table • Hurontario rapid transit from Port Credit to Downtown Brampton • Brampton’s Queen Street AcceleRide (now Züm) • VIVA BRT Highway 7 and Yonge Street through York Region • Spadina Subway extension to Vaughan Corporate Centre • Rapid transit line Finch West (Yonge Subway to Hwy 27-Humber College) • Numerous improvements to GO Transit service (See next display)

Other GTA West area improvements noted in The Big Move in years 16 to 25 could include: • Additional rapid transit services in Halton connecting both Burlington and downtown Milton to the rapid transit service on Dundas Street • Rapid transit on Steeles Avenue in Brampton connecting the Lisgar GO Station to Highway 427 • The first component of the dedicated 407ETR Transitway providing rapid transit service through York Region, continuing as high speed bus service to the east and west along 407ETR, and connecting to Toronto Pearson International Airport via Highway 427 • Necessary improvements to arterial road networks to service new growth that will continue to take place in accordance with municipal Transportation Master Plans • Walking and cycling infrastructure • Opportunities for upgrading BRT services to LRT

Indicator 2006 2031 2031 RTP Current Forecast Trends Transit Mode Split in The 16.5% 16.4% 26.3% Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area Some assumptions used in model for promoting transit use AM Peak Period Auto Trips 2,068,000 3,206,490 2,603,722 • Auto costs increase by 100% and parking costs increase in the GTHA by 50% by 2031 Source: Metrolinx Backgrounder – Modelling Methodologies and Results for the Regional Transportation Plan • Transit fares remain at 2006 levels with fare integration • Optimize rapid transit headways and average operating speed BACKGROUND Many Improvements Have 2 Already Been Planned

GO Transit: GO 2020

GO Transit has developed the GO 2020 Strategic Plan with a year 2020 vision for GO ridership which is expected to increase to more than double inside and triple outside the Toronto core (served by Union Station). The number of riders travelling outside the Toronto core will grow from 12% to 16% of the total GO ridership.

• GO 2020 was released in December 2008 • GO 2020 is being used to guide the organization as it continues to deliver fast, convenient and reliable transit services • GO 2020 aligns with both the Metrolinx - The Big Move and the MoveOntario 2020 Provincial investment, and provides a framework for developing GO’s capital and operating plans and budgets • Major service improvements outlined in GO 2020 include: 9 Two-way, all-day service within GO’s core service area by 2020 9 A train or bus departure at least every 15 minutes during peak periods and at least every 30 minutes in the off-peak period (on core corridors) 9 New peak-period train service along rail lines not currently being used, serving Bolton, Seaton, East Markham and the Yonge / Summerhill areas 9 Extending existing GO rail lines, including Bowmanville on the Lakeshore East Line, Uxbridge on the Stouffville Line, Aurora Road on the Richmond Hill Line, and Region of Waterloo on the Georgetown Line Reference Table: • Extension from Milton to Cambridge See the GO 2020 Report • All-day service Milton to Union Station at the Reference Table

City of Brampton – Züm (Formerly Acceleride) York VIVA – 2010 to 2015 5-Year Service Plan Züm is an initiative of the City of Brampton and The 5-Year Service Plan will incorporate the key Brampton Transit to introduce enhanced, uniquely principles of: branded Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services along the • Planning for easy, convenient and direct connection City’s key north-south and east-west arterial corridors. to future and existing rapid transit services The first phase of BRT improvements (transit signal • Maximizing potential for success with new service priority, low-floor vehicles, HOV and queue jump lanes) strategies with a view to making significant gains in will be implemented in 2010 and the system will be cost recovery and ridership levels completed by 2021. • Developing decision making tools based on a sound • Queen Street (Fall 2010): Downtown Brampton to Business Intelligence approach York University • Main Street (Fall 2011): Sandalwood Parkway to Mississauga City Centre • Steeles Avenue (Fall 2012): Shoppers World to Humber College BACKGROUND Many Improvements Have 2 Already Been Planned

There are a number of planned transportation improvements and ongoing initiatives by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) as well as municipalities within and in the proximity of the GTA West Preliminary Study Area:

• Niagara to GTA EA • Highway 427 Transportation Corridor Extension to Major Mackenzie Drive • Highway 6 (Hanlon Expressway) Improvements EA Study • Transitway Corridor Protection Study 407ETR / Parkway Belt West Corridor From Highway 403 to Markham Road • Highway 401 from Hespeler Road to Halton Region Boundary Preliminary Design and EA Study • Halton-Peel Boundary Area Transportation Study (BATS) • Peel–Highway 427 Extension Area Transportation Master Plan • Highway 7 Kitchener to Guelph EA • Western Vaughan Transportation Improvements EA • Tremaine Road (R.R. 22) Improvements, Derry Road to Campbellville Road, and James Snow Parkway (R.R. 4) Extension West of R.R. 25 Class EA Study • Bolton Arterial Roads Plan • Highway 6 (Morriston to Guelph) Bypass EA • 407ETR Transitway • Highway 427 Transitway

Transportation Master Plans of municipalities within the Preliminary Study Area, which identified the required regional transportation improvements to accommodate future growth: • Halton Region • County of Wellington • York Region • City of Guelph • Peel Region

Planned Transportation Improvements and Ongoing Initiatives

AllAll the the planned planned initiatives initiatives form form the the starting starting point point for for the the developmentdevelopment of of transportation transportation alternatives alternatives for for this this Study. Study. PROCESS FRAMEWORK AND PREVIOUS Process Framework 3 CONSULTATION

A Three Stage Process has been developed to support the generation and assessment of transportation alternatives.

General Process:

1) Start with high level of assessment 2) Following PIC #3, more detailed evaluation will be carried out to further refine and screen out alternatives in advance of Stage 3

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Assessment of Assessment of Evaluation of Individual Groups of Modal Preliminary Planning Alternatives Improvement Alternatives Alternatives

TransportationTransportation DemandDemand Analysis AirAir ManagementManagement (TDM)(TDM) To what extent does the Transportation Transportation Group of Modal SystemSystem FreightFreight Rail Rail ManagementManagement Improvement Alternatives (TSM)(TSM) meet the transportation objectives of this Study? High level assessment of TransitTransit IntermodalIntermodal Environmental, Economic and Community factors.

RoadsRoads && MarineMarine HighwaysHighways

Stage 1 examines individual modal alternatives Refer to: Individual Mode Alternatives section of the display 4 Stage 2 further considers individual modal alternatives in groups Refer to: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives section of the display 5 Stage 3 occurs after PIC #3 and further considers selected group(s) of alternatives Refer to: Next Steps section of the display 6 PROCESS FRAMEWORK AND PREVIOUS Previous Consultation 3 CONSULTATION

Previous Consultation The Creative Process The Project Team has conducted extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders to receive ideas on possible alternatives. These include:

Spring 2009 Fall 2009

Municipal Workshops (Halton, Peel, York, GTA West and NGTA Agency Workshop Guelph-Wellington) (February-March 2009) (September 25, 2009)

Comments from Public Information Centres #1 & Ontario Growth Secretariat #2 (March 2009) (September 28, 2009)

Halton Transportation Advisory Committee Halton Hills Council Workshop (April 24, 2009) (October 13, 2009)

Conservation Authorities Workshops (May 2009) Metrolinx and GO Transit (October 14, 2009) Think Tank Session for GTA West and NGTA Mississaugas of the New Credit Meeting (October Studies (June 8/9, 2009) 28, 2009) Joint GTA West and NGTA Regulatory Agency Advisory Group Meetings Meeting (June 19, 2009) (November 2009)

Halton Region Planning and Public Works Municipal Group Meeting #3 (June 24, 2009) Committee (November 12, 2009)

Meeting with Greenbelt Council Community Group Meeting #4 (July 14, 2009) (November 16, 2009)

Transportation Service Providers Guelph-Wellington County Council (Spring 2009) (November 23, 2009)

Peel Region General Committee (December 3, 2009) PROCESS FRAMEWORK AND PREVIOUS PreviousPrevious ConsultationConsultation 3 CONSULTATION

Previous Consultation Examples of Ideas:

Group #1: Optimize Existing Transportation Network Group #2: New/Improved Non-Roadway Infrastructure • TSM/TDM including Variable Message Signs to notify • Local transit (expand Züm, rapid transit on highways and motorists of highway conditions, Lane Control Signs (i.e. major arterial roads), Bus Rapid Transit (links between speed harmonization), Ramp Metering Systems, Urban Growth Centres) Incident Management, employee sponsored and • Rail Expansion including GO service (new service provincial TDM programs between Urban Growth Centres, service extension • Improved Transit/Rail Services including increased between Milton/Cambridge, Guelph/Waterloo) and service frequency, fare integration, bus lanes on regional rail service (i.e. new service from Bolton to shoulders during peak periods, improved access to Union Station and expansion along Georgetown stations and incorporation of active transportation corridor) • Inter-regional Transit Hubs: Locations where transit and GO connect - expand bike and car parking lots Group #3: Widen Existing Roads • Widen existing highways (Highways 401, 410, 427, 400 and 407ETR) Group #4: New Transportation Corridor WITH / WITHOUT Widening of Arterial Roads: • New transportation corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 410 • Highway 7, Highway 9, RR 3, RR 124, Mayfield Road, Kirby Road including bypass of built-up areas • New transportation corridor from Highway 400 to (i.e. Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown) 407ETR in Mississauga • New transportation corridor from Highway 400 to 401 in Milton

For a complete listing of ideas by group, • New transportation corridor from Highway 400 to please visit the Reference Table Guelph (north of Georgetown) • New transportation corridor from Highway 400 to Assessment of Ideas Highway 6 (south of Georgetown)

• Workshop attended by project leads for each type of modal improvement: – Transit, Rail, Marine, Air, Intermodal, Transportation Demand Management (TDM)/Transportation System Management (TSM), Roads and Highways • Many ideas had policy issues, for example: – Incentives/regulations for rail companies to give preference to passenger traffic during peak periods – Incentives to encourage telecommuting, flexible work hours to reduce the number of vehicular trips – Enable the implementation of non-roadway transportation modes within the GGH through a special coordinating / governing body • Categorized ideas: – Idea would substantively contribute to addressing Problems & Opportunities – Idea would substantively contribute to addressing Problems & Opportunities but requires significant policy change – Idea would not substantively contribute to addressing Problems & Opportunities – Idea is/should be pursued by others • Categorization of ideas based on: – Specialist expertise – Findings of consultation with Transportation Service Providers and Business and Commercial Stakeholders – Those ideas that were categorized as substantively able to contribute to addressing the Problems and Opportunities were carried forward for further evaluation PROCESS FRAMEWORK AND PREVIOUS First Nation Involvement 3 CONSULTATION

“The Ministry recognizes the value that Aboriginal people place on the environment. When making decisions that might significantly affect the environment, the Ministry will provide opportunities for involvement of Aboriginal people whose interests may be affected by such decisions so that Aboriginal interests can be appropriately considered.”

MTO’s Statement of Environmental Values (2005)

Six Nations of the Grand River Territory Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation • Six Nations of the Grand River Territory is • Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation is a the most populous First Nation in Canada; Mississauga Objibwa First Nation with a total a total population of 22,994 population of 1,792 people (May 2008) • It is home to six different First Nations – Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora

The Project Team is engaging Six Nations of the Grand River Territory and the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation regarding their interests in this Study. Efforts will be made to avoid, minimize and mitigate potential impacts to First Nations communities with respect to: •Indian reserves FirstFirst Nations’ Nations’ considerations considerations are are part part of of the the •Sacred grounds developmentdevelopment and and evaluation evaluation of of options options for for •Burial locations increasingincreasing transportation transportation capacity capacity in in the the GTA West Preliminary Study Area. •Archaeological and cultural resources GTA West Preliminary Study Area. •Effects on lands used for traditional activities – Hunting, fishing, harvesting of traditional foods and medicinal plants •Outstanding land claims and treaties •First Nations industry PROCESS FRAMEWORK AND PREVIOUS First Nation Involvement 3 CONSULTATION

First Nations Engagement

• The potential effects of the transportation alternatives on lands of interest to First Nations are an important consideration in this Study

• A comprehensive understanding of the factors which are of interest to the First Nations is necessary

• The Project Team is preparing a “First Nations’ Existing Conditions” document to summarize our understanding of these interests. The following general areas are currently being considered: – Land use / community – First Nations’ industry – Traditional knowledge: hunting, fishing, harvesting of foods, medicinal plants and environmentally sensitive areas – Cultural heritage: pre-historic and historic First Nation sites

• Secondary source information is being used to prepare this document using: – Available community documents – Information available on the community website – Stage 1 Archaeological Report

• Working together with First Nations communities is essential

• The Project Team will continue to engage First Nations to ensure that the appropriate sources of information, knowledge and values are incorporated into the GTA West EA Study INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Individual Mode Alternatives 4 ALTERNATIVES

STAGE 1: Individual Alternatives

Individual Area Transportation System Alternatives have been examined based on their potential to: • Address the identified transportation Problems and Opportunities, and • Contribute to a multi-modal transportation solution

This stage is necessary to determine which individual alternatives merit further review.

All modal alternatives have been considered for constraints and opportunities, based on international experience. Extensive research was undertaken by the Project Team’s specialists for the individual modes, as well as consultation with stakeholders.

KEYKEY QUESTION QUESTION

CanCan individual individual modal modal Individual alternatives provide significant Alternative alternatives provide significant does not transportation improvement? transportation improvement? Transportation move forward Demand Air Management If (TDM) NO

Define Individual Transportation Alternatives Q Transportation for Each Mode Systems Freight Rail Management Research included: (TSM) - Description of existing system Do Corridor Specific - Research on the mode Individual Alternatives (policies, international Transit Intermodal meaningfully contribute examples, other issues and to addressing constraints) the Problems & - List of alternatives Opportunities? considered

Roads & if Marine Highways YES

Develop Group of Modal Improvement Alternatives

Reference Table: New Transportation Corridors

See Discussion Papers at the Reference Table INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL Transportation Demand Management (TDM) / MODE 4 ALTERNATIVES Transportation System Management (TSM)

Existing TDM/TSM within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: Existing and Potential Additional Transportation • Managing demand and making system improvements can be Management Associations cost-effective alternatives to increase the efficiency of an existing transportation system • Transportation (or Travel) Demand Management (TDM): use of policies, programs, services and products to influence whether, why, when, where and how people travel (i.e. through behavioural changes to manage their travel needs)

Transportation Systems Management (TSM): • Use of system management measures to increase efficiency and/or provide safety improvements on an existing transportation system (e.g. traffic-signal timing or phasing adjustments, designation of turning lanes at specific intersections or entrances)

••SmartSmart Commute Commute is is the the key key TDM TDM initiative initiative in in the the area.area. There There are are a a number number of of local local Smart Smart Commute Commute Transportation Management Associations (TMAs) TSMTSM examples: examples: Transportation Management Associations (TMAs) throughout the GTA ••MTOMTO COMPASS COMPASS System System throughout the GTA • The scope of Smart Commute is wide, including ••MTOMTO Traveller’s Traveller’s Information Information • The scope of Smart Commute is wide, including commuter choices and services, market and ••MTOMTO Carpool Carpool Lots Lots commuter choices and services, market and outreach,outreach, advocacy, advocacy, and and monitoring monitoring and and evaluationevaluation

There are a number of primary considerations for implementing more effective TDM/TSM strategies in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Identify need for enhanced/comprehensive transportation network to support TDM/TSM initiatives and promote behavioural changes (e.g. HOV lanes, bus lanes, enhanced bus services, bike network, etc.) • Engage greater municipal participation for advocacy at the resident and corporate levels • Modify motorist behaviours (recognize change is slow) • Target bigger markets (easier to inspire change in bigger communities and availability of greater resources) • Access to funding • Implement Regional Transportation Plan recommended TDM and TSM measures beyond GTA and Hamilton area INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL Transportation Demand Management (TDM) / MODE 4 ALTERNATIVES Transportation System Management (TSM)

Team specialists and stakeholders have provided a long list of alternatives for TDM/TSM. Examples of these include: • Speed harmonization – reduced speed during times of congestion facilitates improved traffic flow • Continue to improve TDM programs and TSM measures (e.g. coordinate with employers, continue to promote public awareness) • Incident management and detection

TDM/TSMTDM/TSM alternatives alternatives can can contribute contribute to to improving improving transportationtransportation Problems Problems and and Opportunities. Opportunities. These These opportunitiesopportunities are are being being carried carried forward forward to to the the Groups Groups of of ModalModal Transportation Transportation Altern Alternatives.atives. TDM/TSM TDM/TSM measures measures cannotcannot resolve resolve the the problems problems on on their their own. own.

Refer to: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives section of the display 5

There are many other alternatives generated; however, they would not substantively contribute to addressing transportation Problems and Opportunities or are already underway by others. Details of these are available at our reference table.

Reference Table:

Refer to the TDM/TSM Discussion Paper for the development of alternatives and rationale (i.e. Why alternatives are being carried forward or not) at the Reference Table INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Transit 4 ALTERNATIVES

TransitTransit is is the the first first priority priority forfor moving moving people. people.

Existing Inter-regional and Local Transit Systems within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Guelph, Milton, Brampton, Mississauga, and York provide municipal transit services • Inter-Regional transit services in the Preliminary Study Area currently include: – GO Train and Bus services from Toronto to Georgetown on the Georgetown Line – GO Train and Bus services from Toronto to Milton on the Milton Line – GO Bus service from GTA to Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge – Other GO Bus routes (Highway 403 and 407ETR) – VIA Rail from Toronto to Guelph to Kitchener-Waterloo – VIVA York Region Transit in Vaughan – Private services (e.g. Greyhound, Coach Canada) • There are a number of plans that support the development and implementation of transit in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: – GO Transit GO 2020 Strategic Plan – Metrolinx RTP – Brampton Züm – York VIVA Refer to: Background section of the display 2 – Halton’s Transportation Master Plan – Guelph Transit Growth Strategy and Plan – Guelph-Wellington Transportation Study

There are a number of primary considerations for implementing effective transit system in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: – Develop consistent policies and practices across municipalities and regions in the Preliminary Study Area – Co-ordinate between transit services providers – Increase service frequency and reliability – Property acquisition constraints – Control / source of capital and operating funds – Prioritize needs and create an implementation schedule – Improve existing transit infrastructure (e.g. transit – supportive land use practices, additional transportation hubs near business districts, commuter parking lots, etc.) – Integrate transit services between neighbouring municipalities (improve route linkages, reduce travel time, fare integration) INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Transit 4 ALTERNATIVES

Team specialists and stakeholders have provided a long list of alternatives for transit. Examples of these include: • Continue expansion of inter-regional GO Bus routes / GO Services (e.g. Mobility hubs such as Kitchener-Waterloo / Guelph, expand frequency and hours beyond peak periods) • Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connects • Multi-purpose transportation on existing and future facilities (e.g. transitway, dedicated transit lanes, other transit priority measures) • Incorporate active transportation at transit stations (e.g. bike racks, lockers) • Carpool lots at 400-series highways (with bike parking)

TheseThese Transit Transit alternatives alternatives can can meaningfully meaningfully contribute contribute to to improving improving transportation transportation ProblemsProblems and and Opportunities. Opportunities. These These altern alternativesatives are are being being carried carried forward forward to to the the GroupsGroups of of Modal Modal Transportation Transportation Alternatives Alternatives. .Transit Transit alternatives alternatives do do not not fully fully resolve resolve thethe problems problems or or address address the the opportunities opportunities on on their their own. own.

Refer to: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives section of the display 5

There are many other alternatives generated; however, they would not substantively contribute to addressing transportation Problems and Opportunities or are already being pursued by others. Details of these are available at our reference table.

Reference Table:

Refer to the Transit Discussion Paper for the development of alternatives and rationale (i.e. Why alternatives are being carried forward or not) at the Reference Table INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Goods Movement 4 ALTERNATIVES

Goods shipment method selection is based on: • Type of goods (bulk, weight, value) • Travel distance (inter-regional, continental, trans-ocean) • Shipping rates that vary by mode • Efficiency of travel • Urgency of delivery • Origin and destination of goods and available transportation connections

Mode Type of Goods Typically Shipped Why are certain products shipped by each mode?

Truck Consumer Goods-household products • Less than 500km for journey length Manufacturing Goods - Auto • Increasing reliance on “just in time” delivery Raw Materials - Lumber, Food • Multiple destinations of goods • Lack of alternative linkages to the transportation system • Relatively smaller quantities of goods shipped at one time Rail Bulk Goods/Containers - forest products, • More than 500km for journey length chemicals, automotive, ore/minerals • Rail system connected efficiently to origin of bulk goods • Higher relative weight of products • Large quantities of goods shipped at one time Marine Bulk Goods/Containers - grain, iron ore • More than 500km for journey length coal, general cargo/consumer goods • Efficient and cost effective mode for transport of goods overseas when compared to air • Large quantities of goods shipped at one time Air Machinery/Manufactured Goods - • More than 500km for journey length perishable foods, medical supplies / • High value products equipment / flowers • High degree of time sensitivity • Lower relative weight and quantity of goods shipped

Although most goods experience a multi-modal journey, the truck mode accounts for almost 70% of the trade value between Canada and the U.S. in terms of mode distribution and 45% of all tonnage.

WhileWhile Rail, Rail, Marine Marine and and Air Air provide provide significantsignificant service service in in the the movement movement of of goods,goods, the the inter-regional inter-regional road road network network is is a a keykey component component in in the the overall overall transportationtransportation of of goods. goods.

2007 Mode Distribution of Canada-US Trade by Value* 2004 Mode Distribution of Canada-US Trade by Tonnage* Air, 7% Air, 2% Marine, 5%

Marine, 26%

Rail, 20% Road, 45%

Road, 68% * Exclude pipeline and other modes

Rail, 27% INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Freight Rail 4 ALTERNATIVES

Existing Freight Rail Transportation System within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific (CP) Railways – Class 1 • Shortline railways through GTA West Preliminary Study Area include: – the Goderich and Exeter Railway (GEXR) – the Orangeville Brampton Railway (OBRY), and – the Ontario Southland Railway (OSR) – Class 2

There are a number of primary considerations for the use of freight rail in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Security issues – becoming an increasing important and expensive issue for railway operators (e.g. Canada / U.S. border crossing) • Insufficient and/or inefficient intermodal road connections • Coordination of goods movement planning (i.e. different parties are responsible for planning of the railways, road network and other modes) • Inconsistency of regulations (e.g. load limitation, duplication of effort between Canadian and U.S. Customs) • Current provincial transportation policy does not explicitly address rail corridors • Grade separations typically do not span the full railway corridor, limiting potential for future expansion • Policies or programs to promote compatibility between rail and adjacent land use

Team specialists and stakeholders have provided a long list of alternatives for freight rail. Based on consultation with stakeholders and findings of specialists: • CN and CP generally have sufficient rail/track capacity for future rail growth that could be optimized • Major issue relating to the GTA West Preliminary Study Area is the limitation of the inter-regional road network

RailRail has has the the potential potential to to play play a a greater greater role role inin the the overall overall transportation transportation system. system. LandLand uses uses along along rail rail corridors corridors should should be be mademade more more compatible compatible with with rail rail use use throughthrough policy policy and and program program changes. changes. INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Freight Rail 4 ALTERNATIVES

Freight rail alternatives have very good potential to address the inter-regional transportation Problems and Opportunities. These alternatives on their own, however, will not significantly resolve the problems:

• Grade separate road and rail (i.e. identify bottleneck locations) – On the CN Corridor between Guelph and Bramalea (Guelph Subdivision from Guelph to Georgetown, Halton Subdivision from Georgetown to Bramalea) the principal bottlenecks to consider are the crossing of the 400-series highways at Highways 410, 427 and 407ETR – In addition there is a rail-to-rail level crossing (Diamond) in Brampton between CN and a leased CP track between Streetsville and Orangeville. This diamond may create some problems in eliminating or developing some other solution to enable the operators of this line to maintain their business – On the CP line from Weston to Woodbridge to Bolton (MacTier Subdivision), GO Transit is presently developing plans to add commuter service. This corridor also crosses Highway 401 and 407ETR along with a grade separated subway under CN’s corridor – On the CP line from Etobicoke to Mississauga through Streetville and on to Milton (Galt Subdivision), this line is near and within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area and it crosses 407ETR and in Milton it crosses CN in a subway grade separation • National policy targets for modal shift onto rail • Changes to rail grade separation regulations • Standardize carrying requirements across jurisdictions • Improve integration of rail and air transportation modes • Utilize short haul routes • Various CN and CP initiatives

Reference Table:

Refer to the Freight Rail Discussion Paper for the development of alternatives and rationale (i.e. Why alternatives are being carried forward or not) at the Reference Table INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Intermodal 4 ALTERNATIVES

Existing Transportation System within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Intermodal transportation provides the movement of goods from one mode of transport to another, typically at a terminal • Intermodal facilities in Preliminary Study Area include: – Canadian National (CN) in Brampton (Peel Region) – CP in Vaughan (York Region)

There are a number of primary considerations for the implementation of intermodal facilities for goods movement: • Security issues • Perceived competitive interaction amongst ImprovedImproved access access to to and and from from Highway Highway 427 427 and and the the transportation modes CPCP intermodal intermodal facility facility in in the the GTA GTA West West Preliminary Preliminary • Insufficient and/or inefficient intermodal StudyStudy Area Area is is currently currently being being pursued. pursued. road connections – Access improvement • Coordination of goods movement planning

Team specialists and stakeholders have provided a long list of alternatives for Intermodal. Based on consultation with stakeholders and findings of specialists: • There is adequate capacity of existing intermodal facilities that can accommodate future growth • Major issue relating to the GTA West Preliminary Study Area is the limitation of the inter-regional road network from the perspective of connectivity / access and congestion Intermodal alternatives have very good potential to address the inter-regional transportation Problems and Opportunities. These alternatives on their own, however, will not significantly resolve the problems. They are recommended to be pursued by others or are already being pursued by others. In many cases, further study is required. These alternatives are as follows: • Introduce planning policies to promote nodal (mixed use) developments – FSLUGs: Freight Supportive Land Use Guidelines avoid conflicting uses near intermodal terminals • Provide choice and opportunity to benefit from strengths of each mode • Understand requirements and match with logistics and economic realities • Logistics hubs near airports/ports/rail yards/industrial parks

Reference Table: IntermodalIntermodal alternatives alternatives have have very very good good potential potential to to addressaddress the the inter-regional inter-regional transportation transportation Problems Problems and and Refer to the Intermodal Discussion Opportunities in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area. Paper for the development of Opportunities in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area. alternatives and rationale (i.e. Why TheseThese alternatives alternatives on on their their own, own, however, however, will will not not alternatives are being carried forward significantlysignificantly resolve resolve the the problems. problems. or not) at the Reference Table INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Air 4 ALTERNATIVES

Existing Air Transportation System within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Although not within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area, the largest international airport in Canada, Toronto Pearson International Airport, is located approximately 3 km southeast of the Study Area boundary

There are a number of primary considerations for the use of air transportation for goods movement: • Security issues – global securing policies and procedures at the U.S. border crossings • Fuel prices – air transportation is a relatively high intensity user of fuel per weight shipped • Limited multi-modal connections – particularly by rail and transit, connecting airports to urban centres and tourist attractions

Team specialists and stakeholders have provided a long list of alternatives for Air. Based on consultation with stakeholders and findings of specialists: • Major issue related to the GTA West Preliminary Study Area is the limitation of the inter- regional road network from a perspective of connectivity / access and congestion

Air alternatives have very good potential to address the inter-regional transportation Problems and Opportunities. These alternatives on their own, however, will not significantly resolve the problems. They are recommended to be pursued by others or are already being pursued by others. In many cases, further study is required. These alternatives are as follows: • Metrolinx urban goods movement strategy • Logistics hubs near airports/ports/rail yards/industrial parks • Improvements to “free trade zone” systems • Improve integration of rail and air transportation modes • High speed rail link between Union Station-Toronto Pearson International Airport - Kitchener/Waterloo • Sixth runway at Toronto Pearson International Airport

Reference Table:

AirAir alternatives alternatives have have very very good good potential potential to to address address the the inter- inter- Refer to the Air Discussion Paper regional transportation Problems and Opportunities in the GTA for the development of alternatives regional transportation Problems and Opportunities in the GTA and rationale (i.e. Why alternatives WestWest Preliminary Preliminary Study Study Area. Area. These These alternatives alternatives on on their their own, own, are being carried forward or not) at however,however, will will not not significantly significantly resolve resolve the the problems. problems. the Reference Table INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Marine 4 ALTERNATIVES

Existing Marine Transportation System within the GTA West Preliminary Study Area: • Preliminary Study Area is located to the northwest of the St. Lawrence Seaway System, and no marine transportation facilities are located within it • Key marine facilities in the vicinity of the Preliminary Study Area include the Port of Toronto, Port of Hamilton and the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System

There are a number of primary considerations for the use of marine transportation for goods movement: • Border related security issue • Operation schedule for the St. Lawrence Seaway (closure between December and March for schedule maintenance) • Vessel size • Intermodal interface with rail/trucking

Team specialists and stakeholders have provided a long list of alternatives for Marine. Based on consultation with stakeholders and findings of specialists: • Major issue related to the GTA West Preliminary Study Area is the limitation of the inter- regional road network from the perspective of connectivity / access and congestion

Marine alternatives have very good potential to address the inter-regional transportation Problems and Opportunities. These alternatives on their own, however, will not significantly resolve the problems. They are recommended to be pursued by others or are already being pursued by others. In many cases, further study is required. These alternatives are as follows: • Logistics hubs near airports/ports/rail yards/industrial parks • Metrolinx urban goods movement strategy Marine alternatives have very • Make better use of port facilities and coordinate with other modes Marine alternatives have very goodgood potential potential to to address address the the • Changes to advance notification rules at Canada-U.S. border inter-regionalinter-regional transportation transportation • Changes to Canadian cabotage laws ProblemsProblems and and Opportunities Opportunities in in the the • Changes to U.S. harbor maintenance tax GTAGTA West West Preliminary Preliminary Study Study Area. Area. • Changes to ballast water regulations TheseThese alternatives alternatives on on their their own, own, • Improved coordination between GTHA port authorities however,however, will will not not significantly significantly resolve the problems. • Formal distribution network to/from Montreal resolve the problems. • Provide choice and opportunity to benefit from strengths of each mode Reference Table: • Understand requirements and merge with logistics Refer to the Marine Discussion Paper and economic realities for the development of alternatives and rationale (i.e. Why alternatives • National policy targets for modal shift onto rail/marine are being carried forward or not) at • Improve efficiency of marine and rail connection the Reference Table to trade centres INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL MODE Our Assessment 4 ALTERNATIVES

STAGE 1: Individual Alternatives

• Individual Modal Alternatives have been considered and shown to address some but not all the identified transportation Problems and Opportunities • Groupings of Individual Modal Alternatives are also considered to determine how they can address transportation Problems and Opportunities

Transportation Transportation Demand Systems Management Air Freight Rail Management No single transportation Develop (TDM) (TSM) mode is capable of fully Groups of addressing the Modal transportation Problems Improvement Roads & and Opportunities Alternatives Intermodal Marine Transit Highways

Refer to: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives section of the display 5

Mode Stage 1 Results Is recognized as an important component of transportation networks but on its own it Transportation Demand does not provide a significant improvement to transportation problems in the Management (TDM) Preliminary Study Area. Is recognized as an important component of transportation networks but on its own it Transportation Systems does not provide a significant improvement to transportation problems in the Management (TSM) Preliminary Study Area. Improved transit is recognized as an important component of a transportation network especially for the movement of people and commuter; however, on its own it does not Transit provide a significant resolution of the full range of transportation problems in the Preliminary Study Area. Improved multi-modal connections to the Toronto Pearson International Airport have Air some potential to reduce dependence on the road network in the Preliminary Study Area. Recommended to be pursued by others or are already being pursued by others. Improved multi-modal connections to Port of Toronto / Port of Hamilton have some Marine potential to reduce congestion on the road network in the Preliminary Study Area. Recommended to be pursued by others or are already being pursued by others. Although rail will continue to be an important aspect of goods movement in the Freight Rail Preliminary Study Area, there are no specific rail transportation alternatives to be pursued as part of this Study. Improved intermodal facilities have some potential to address transportation problems Intermodal in the Preliminary Study Area, especially as they relate to the movement of goods (i.e., rail to truck transfers etc.). GROUPS OF MODAL IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT Process 5 ALTERNATIVES

STAGE 2: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives

• Stage 1: Individual Alternatives concluded that no single transportation mode is capable of fully addressing the transportation Problems and Opportunities • Stage 2: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives: – Combine various elements of the single mode alternatives – Examine and assess each of the group alternatives at a high level to determine likely advantages and disadvantages based on a variety of features and criteria

Group #1 KEYKEY QUESTION QUESTION Optimize Existing Networks CanCan Group Group #1 #1 on on its its ownown significantly significantly • Transit • Marine address the Problems • TDM address the Problems • Rail and Opportunities in • Roads & Highways • TSM and Opportunities in the Study Area? • Air • Intermodal the Study Area?

Group #2 KEYKEY QUESTION QUESTION New / Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure CanCan Group Group #2 #2 on on its its ownown significantly significantly • Group #1 plus addressaddress the the Problems Problems • Transit andand Opportunities Opportunities in in • Rail thethe Study Study Area? Area?

Group #3 Group #4 Widen / Improve Roads Comparison of Advantages New Transportation Corridors and Disadvantages • Group #2 plus • Environment • Elements of Group #3 plus • Widen / Improve • Community • New Transportation Roads & Highways • Economy Corridors • Transportation GROUPS OF MODAL Transportation Alternatives IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Group #1 Optimize Existing Network

What is Group #1?

The following individual ideas form the basis for Group #1:

Strategies • Improved scheduling and fare integration between inter-regional and local transit providers • Use of real time trip planning information technologies for transit users and drivers Metrolinx & GO 2020 RTP • Increased / improved transit service frequency

• Speed harmonization – reduced speeds during times of congestion facilitate improved traffic flow (e.g. lane control signs) • Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs – provincial co-ordination and employer sponsorship of programs improves the effectiveness of TDM initiatives (e.g. Smart Commute) • Ramp metering systems – regulated auto access to sections of highway reducing local congestion

Strategies • Transit / High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) bypass locations – bypass lanes using metered ramps and direct ramp access to transit stations/carpool lots for HOV and GTAW Project Team transit vehicles • Incident management and detection – improved detection and response to emergencies/incidents for more timely clearance • Operational improvements at localized bottlenecks to ease traffic flow

Source: Highways Agency (UK)

Source: Highways Agency (UK) GROUPS OF MODAL IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT Group #1 5 ALTERNATIVES Optimize Existing Network

The Ontario government has shown its commitment to optimization through a number of existing initiatives: • Provincial TDM Municipal Grant Program – encourages walking, cycling, transit and trip reduction by providing annual funding for municipal projects focused on these travel modes • Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan – fosters a transportation system which focuses on sustainable and active transportation; mobility hubs; TDM; moving goods and delivering services; roads and highways; and transit. A few initiatives include: – Smart Commute – Local Transportation Management Associations work with employers to encourage and facilitate alternative travel choices like carpooling, teleworking, transit, cycling, walking or flexible work hours – Bike Linx – accommodates and encourages trips which combine cycling and public transit by equipping buses with bicycle carrying racks and installing bike lockers throughout the Region – Trip Planner – a collaboration with GO Transit, TTC and other Transportation Service Providers across the GTHA to implement an integrated trip planner system for traffic, weather, incident reports and airport and border crossing delays

The Ontario government, GO Transit, Ottawa's OC Transpo System and eight municipal transit partners in the GTA are encouraging public transit use by providing commuters with a more convenient way to get to their destinations. The Presto Smart Card: • Features: – Easy to carry – size of a debit card – The computer chip in your card communicates with the card reader in transit stations or on transit vehicles. The system calculates the lowest fare for your trip, and deducts the fare from the balance stored on your card • Benefits: – Easy transfers and flexibility. One card for travel on any participating system – The system calculates the different fares for you. Faster boarding & convenience. Almost instantaneous fare reduction, exact change not required. Time-saving ways to reload your card. You can add a dollar value to your card in person, via a website or call centre, or through a pre-authorized payment

The PRESTO card will be rolled out across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area and Ottawa as follows:

• Spring 2010 – GO Transit's Lakeshore West, Georgetown and Milton – Burlington Transit – GO Rail lines – TTC (6 Subway Stations) – Oakville Transit • Fall 2010 – GO Transit's Lakeshore East, Barrie and Richmond Hill – Brampton Transit – GO Rail lines and all associated GO Bus routes – Hamilton Street Railway – Mississauga Transit – TTC (Kipling and Islington Subway Stations) • Winter 2011 – Durham Region Transit – GO Rail line and all remaining GO Bus routes – York Region Transit – TTC (Don Mills, Downsview and Finch Subway – GO Transit's Stouffville Stations) – Ottawa's OC Transpo System

The PRESTO website will provide regular updates regarding the full implementation of the PRESTO Card: www.prestocard.ca GROUPS OF MODAL IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT Group #1 5 ALTERNATIVES Optimize Existing Network

Through high level assessments, Group #1 Modal Improvements Alternatives will: • Have minimal direct negative impacts to community features, the Niagara Escarpment and Greenbelt lands, as well as natural environment features • Not significantly improve the efficiency of people or goods movement, and transportation Problems and Opportunities

Expected Benefits

• Trip reduction • Potential for • Potential for benefits • Potential health • TDM and TSM have the maximized efficiency to air quality and benefits with greatest impact on urban of the transportation climate change increased active travel patterns in urban system through trip transportation centres reduction and mode (walking, cycling) shifts • Potential for inter-regional auto travel to decline by 4% in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area

Summary of the Assessment

Community Economy Environment Transportation • Supports Government Policy in • Little to no impacts to agricultural • Supports environmental • Optimizes use of existing optimizing use of existing operations protection policies (Government infrastructure infrastructure • Does not support economic Policy, Niagara Escarpment • Fails to address transportation • Minimizes impacts to Niagara factors associated with industry Plan, Greenbelt Plan, etc.) Problems and Opportunities in Escarpment Plan and Greenbelt and trade, tourism or agriculture • Minimizes footprint impacts at the GTA West Preliminary Study Plan lands • Limited ability to support natural features or to natural Area • Minimizes impacts to community increased trade through lack of functions • Limited improvement to features improvement to movement of • Minimizes impacts to air quality efficiency of people and goods • Little to no impact on: goods • Minimizes resource consumption movement – agricultural lands • Limited ability to support existing • Limited improvement to or future industry transportation system – built heritage operations, reliability, – archaeological resources • Limited ability to service provincial/regional or municipal redundancy and safety • Does not sufficiently support tourism or improve service for • Minor potential to improve modal planned future land use or growth traffic going to areas beyond the integration for people and goods • Limited ability to provide GTA movement improved transit connections • Limited ability to improve • Limited improvement to between Urban Growth Centres connections between Urban accessibility of Urban Growth (i.e., Vaughan Corporate Centre, Growth Centres Centres Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) • Does not address nature of • Limited potential to support goods movement around the recreation and tourism travel • Does not provide increased GTA, which is heavily oriented to goods movement linkages • No significant constructability “Just in Time” and short-haul issues; minor delays on inter- among intermodal facilities or delivery communities in the GGH regional road network beyond MTO programmed works MoreMore is is needed needed to to sufficiently sufficiently address address transportationtransportation Problems Problems and and Opportunities.Opportunities. Group Group #1 #1 improvements improvements willwill therefore therefore be be carried carried forward forward for for furtherfurther consideration consideration in in combination combination with with GroupGroup #2 #2 alternatives. alternatives. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #2 IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Includes New/Improved Non-Roadway Infrastructure What is Group #2? New / improved non-roadway Group #2 Alternatives infrastructure (e.g. related to Group #1 Alternatives transit, rail and air)

Current plans and initiatives include: • Additional expanded and improved parking facilities at transit stations • New bus storage in Aberfoyle • Other Metrolinx RTP and GO 2020 Strategy initiatives (See display 2: Many Improvements have already been planned) • Freight Rail, Air and Marine initiatives to be pursued by others (see display 4: Individual Mode Alternatives) • Rapid Transit - Steeles Ave. area (Lisgar GO to Highway 427) - Highway 427 (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Queen Street)

Strategies - Hurontario St. (Port Credit to Downtown Brampton) - 407ETR (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Highway 427) - Finch Ave. West (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Finch Station)

GO 2020 - Highway 10 (Mayfield West to Downtown Brampton) - Highway 7 (Peel-York boundary to Locust Hill/Markham) - 407ETR (Halton to Durham) - Trafalgar Rd. /Main St. (Downtown Milton to 407ETR) - Brampton Züm (Downtown Brampton to Peel-York Boundary) • Regional Rail Service

Metrolinx & RTP - Bolton from Union Station - Expansion of the Georgetown north corridor (Downtown Brampton / Milton) - Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station - Service extension from Milton to Cambridge - Service extension from Georgetown to Kitchener • Express Rail - Richmond Hill / Langstaff Gateway to Union Station - Downtown Brampton to Union Station

Source: Metrolinx GROUPS OF MODAL Group #2 IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Includes New/Improved Non-Roadway Infrastructure What is Group #2? New / improved non-roadway Group #2 Alternatives infrastructure (e.g. related to Group #1 Alternatives transit, rail and air)

Current plans and initiatives include: • Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes feeding GO Rail stations • Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Milton, Brampton) • New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres (Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph) GTAW Project Team Strategies GTAW Project

ThisThis plan plan presents presents all all major major transittransit services services in in the the area area – – existingexisting and and proposed proposed by by Metrolinx,Metrolinx, GO GO and and municipal municipal transittransit operators operators GROUPS OF MODAL Group #2 IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Includes New/Improved Non-Roadway Infrastructure

Through high level assessment, Group #2 Modal Improvement Alternatives will: • Have some potential to improve transportation system operations (e.g. linkages between Urban Growth Centres, introduction of new transit routes, etc.) with relatively less impact to the natural environmental features • Not sufficiently address all transportation Problems and Opportunities

Expected Benefits

• Improved mode choice • Improved potential for • Potential for benefits to • Potential shift of 10% of for movement of people mode shift from air quality and climate long distance truck Summaryand goods of the Assessmentauto/truck travel to change and decreased traffic (more than other modes congestion through trip 500km) to alternative (transit/rail) reduction and mode modes if infrastructure shift and policy support is provided

Community Economy Environment Transportation • Supports the Government Policy • Some potential to improve service • Supports environmental protection • Major potential to improve modal for optimizing use of existing to existing and future industry and policies integration for people movement infrastructure to improve trade over longer • Potentially minimizes resource • Limited improvement to efficiency • Relatively minor impacts to distances consumption of people and goods movement Niagara Escarpment Plan and • Potential but limited improvement • Minimizes footprint impacts on • Limited improvement to Greenbelt Plan lands for existing tourism operations natural features or to natural transportation system operations, • Can result in positive land use • Relatively minor impacts to functions where widening or new reliability, redundancy and safety impacts as transit hubs tend to agricultural operations alignment is required • Limited potential to improve modal attract more accessible • Improves connections between • Potential for minor impacts to air integration for goods movement development patterns Urban Growth Centres quality through built-up areas • Significant improvement to transit • Overall increase in transportation • Does not address nature of goods linkages between Urban Growth options may benefit those who are movement, which is heavily Centres physically, economically and oriented to “Just in Time” and socially disadvantaged • Moderate potential to improve short-haul delivery recreation and tourism travel, with • Potential for improved walking and new and improved transit services cycling connections • Minor constructability issues; • Significant potential to provide minor delays on inter-regional road improved connections between network beyond MTO Urban Growth Centres (i.e., programmed works Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Group #2 alternatives do not fully Milton and Downtown Guelph) Group #2 alternatives do not fully address the identified transportation • Little to no impact on: address the identified transportation – agricultural lands ProblemsProblems and and Opportunities. Opportunities. They They will will – archaeological resources thereforetherefore be be carried carried forward forward for for further further – cultural landscapes considerationconsideration in in combination combination with with • Does not provide increased goods Group #3 alternatives. movement linkages among Group #3 alternatives. intermodal facilities and communities in the GGH • Some potential to impact community features and resources in built-up areas where corridors are widened to accommodate transit or rail, or at transit hubs GROUPS OF MODAL Findings from Group #1 IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES and Group #2

• By 2031 the population in the Greater Golden Horseshoe is expected to increase by almost 4 million people • To accommodate this growth, the Project Team anticipates that by 2031: – The land use intensification targets prescribed in the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe will be fully achieved – Urban Growth Centres will be built with transit supportive densities and a healthy mix of land uses – The development of compact, vibrant and complete communities will be fostered in which people will live, work, and play – An additional 700 million transit trips within the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area will be accommodated – All current provincial transportation plans (e.g. Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan, GO 2020) will be implemented – More commuters will switch from single occupant cars to transit and carpools – A significant share of goods transport will be diverted from long distance trucks to other modes – The existing transportation infrastructure will be optimized through implementation of the Group #1 type initiatives – More non-road based infrastructure such as the Group #2 recommendations will be implemented, along with additional related actions

NotwithstandingNotwithstanding these these positive positive chan changes,ges, by by the the year year 2031, 2031, roadway roadway congestioncongestion will will still still exist, exist, particularly particularly on on Highways Highways 401, 401, 400, 400, 427 427 and and 410. 410. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #3 Includes IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Widen / Improve Existing Roads

What is Group #3-1 ?

Group #3-1 Widening of existing highways in the GTA West area Group #1 and Alternatives to provide additional capacity Group #2 Alternatives – Highway 401 – Highway 410 – Highway 400 – 407ETR – Highway 427 ForFor the the complete complete transit transit initiatives,initiatives, see see map map in in GroupGroup #2. #2.

TheThe “ultimate “ultimate number number of of lanes” lanes” shown shown in in Groups Groups #3 #3 andand #4 #4 are are identified identified based based on on demand demand level level and and networknetwork continuity continuity assumpti assumptionsons as as part part of of the the GTA GTA WestWest Corridor Corridor Study. Study. Whethe Whether rsome some or or all all of of these these wideningswidenings will will be be select selecteded as as the the Preferred Preferred Alternative(s)Alternative(s) is is subject subject to to further further analysis analysis of of the the EA.EA. Further Further analysis analysis will will include include the the examination examination of of thethe impact, impact, feasibility feasibility and and compatibility compatibility with with the the existingexisting and and planned planned infrastructure/design. infrastructure/design. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #3 Includes IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Widen / Improve Existing Roads

What is Group #3-2 ? Group #3-2 Widening of existing highways and inter-regional Group #1 and Alternatives (Regional / County) roads to provide additional capacity Group #2 Alternatives – Highway 401 – Cty Rd 124 / Reg Rd 24 / Highway 9 – Highway 400 – Highway 7 – Highway 427 – Mayfield Road / Kirby Road ForFor the the complete complete transit transit – Highway 410 – Trafalgar Road initiatives,initiatives, see see map map in in – 407ETR GroupGroup #2. #2.

ImprovementsImprovements shown shown to to be be outside outside of of the the PreliminaryPreliminary Study Study Area Area will will be be considered considered inin this this study study process process as as appropriate. appropriate. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #3 Includes IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Widen / Improve Existing Roads

What is Group #3-3 ? Group #3-3 Widening of existing highways and arterial (Regional / Group #1 and Alternatives County) roads to provide additional capacity Group #2 Alternatives – Highway 401 – 407ETR – Highway 400 – Mayfield Road / Kirby Road – Highway 427 – Trafalgar Road ForFor the the complete complete transit transit – Highway 410 initiatives,initiatives, see see map map in in GroupGroup #2. #2.

TheThe “ultimate “ultimate number number of of lanes” lanes” shown shown in in Groups Groups #3 #3 andand #4 #4 are are identified identified based based on on demand demand level level and and networknetwork continuity continuity assumpti assumptionsons as as part part of of the the GTA GTA WestWest Corridor Corridor Study. Study. Whethe Whether rsome some or or all all of of these these wideningswidenings will will be be select selecteded as as the the Preferred Preferred Alternative(s)Alternative(s) is is subject subject to to further further analysis analysis of of the the EA.EA. Further Further analysis analysis will will include include the the examination examination of of thethe impact, impact, feasibility feasibility and and compatibility compatibility with with the the existingexisting and and planned planned infrastructure/design. infrastructure/design. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #3 IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Includes Widen/ Improve Existing Roads

Group #3: Summary of Our Assessment The assessment of Group #3 builds on and reflects the previous assessment summaries in Group #1 and Group #2.

Overall, Group #3 Modal Improvement Alternatives will: • Improve the efficiency of people and goods movement with improved inter-regional transportation system operations • Have impacts to many environmental features and direct impacts to land use and community features in various communities within the Preliminary Study Area

Community Economy Environment Transportation • Supports the Government Policy • Some ability to service future • Supports the Government Policy • Generally addresses people and by optimizing the use of existing industry along existing travel on the protection of Natural goods movement transportation infrastructure corridors Heritage, Agricultural and Cultural demands in the GTA West • Relatively minor impacts to • Additional capacity reduces Heritage/Archaeological resources Preliminary Study Area Niagara Escarpment Plan and congestion and facilitates goods • Minimizes fragmentation of • Major improvement to efficiency Greenbelt Plan lands movement and trade environmental protection policy of people and goods movement, • Low potential to impact agricultural • Provides improved access to areas (i.e. Niagara Escarpment with improved inter-regional operations and results in less loss tourism/recreation operations Plan, Greenbelt Plan and Oak transportation system operations of agricultural lands because most along existing travel corridors Ridges Moraine) • Major improvement to impacts are on the fringe • Additional capacity reduces • Potential for less resource transportation system operations • Low potential to impact congestion and facilitates consumption or mineral and and safety archaeological resources because improved travel for tourism and aggregate resource related issues • Moderate improvement to most areas have been previously recreational purposes • Increased emissions along existing transportation system reliability disturbed • Groups 3-2 and 3-3 may improve major travel corridors in built-up and redundancy • Group 3-1 has minimal impact on tourism opportunities for new and areas, where sensitive receptors • Moderate potential to improve community features, because it existing attractions in northern are located. Proximity to receptors modal integration for people and uses Provincial highways sections of Study Area increases exposure goods movement • Groups 3-2 and 3-3 provide • Relatively minor impacts to • Impacts many environmental • Potential to improve linkages and improved access to future agricultural operations features. Although footprint accessibility between the urban widening may be considered less employment areas in Brampton • Group 3-2 - a new bypass (around areas in the GTA West Corridor and Caledon severe than fragmentation of Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, natural areas, frequency of • Major improvement to recreation • Potential to improve linkages and Erin, Caledon and/or Mono Mills) crossings and ability to mitigate and tourism travel and directness accessibility between the urban could potentially open up lands for through design may be restricted of routes to tourist/ recreation areas in the GTA West Corridor new business or light industrial because of property constraints destinations in the GTA and • Group 3-2 has potential for expansion and design limitations imposed by northern Ontario significant direct (i.e. displacement • Limited ability to improve existing infrastructure • Significant constructability and and access) impacts to land uses connections between Urban staging issues and community features in places Growth Centres (i.e. Vaughan • No new inter-regional such as Rockwood, Acton, Corporate Centre, Downtown transportation corridors Georgetown, Erin, Caledon, etc., Brampton, Downtown Milton and although bypasses may reduce Downtown Guelph) • Alternatives 3-1 and 3-3 provide impacts limited roadway redundancy • Potential bypasses around improvements • Group 3-2 has potential for Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown significant direct impacts (i.e. Erin, Caledon and Mono Mills may • Alternatives 3-1 and 3-3 provide displacement/loss) to built heritage reduce exposure for businesses in limited roadway improvements to features along existing roads and existing built-up areas Guelph in communities named above, • Groups 3-2 and 3-3 could impact although bypasses may reduce agricultural operations through impacts property access, “fringe” impacts AlternativesAlternatives under under Group Group #3 #3 Modal Modal • Groups 3-2 & 3-3 include major and indirect proximity impacts ImprovementImprovement Alternatives Alternatives will will be be examined examined municipal widenings that may not be consistent with municipal plans, andand evaluated evaluated in in further further detail detail following following policies, transportation master PICPIC #3 #3 (i.e. (i.e. Stage Stage 3 3 of of the the Transportation Transportation plans and/or Official Plans AlternativesAlternatives Assessment Assessment Process). Process).

Refer to: 3: Process Framework 3 Refer to 6: Next steps 6 GROUPS OF MODAL Group #4 Includes IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES New Transportation Corridors

What is Group #4-1 ? Group #4-1 Widening of existing New transportation Group #1 and Alternatives highways corridor from Highway Group #2 400 to Highway 410 Alternatives – Highway 400 – Highway 401 – Highway 427 – Highway 410 ForFor the the complete complete transit transit initiatives, initiatives, – 407ETR seesee map map in in Group Group #2. #2.

TheThe representative representative alternativesalternatives shown shown in in Group Group 4 4 areare intended intended to to illustrate illustrate possiblepossible end end points points and and potentialpotential connections connections to to the the transportationtransportation network. network. SpecificSpecific route route locations/alignmentslocations/alignments of of these these illustrativeillustrative alternatives, alternatives, the the detaileddetailed effects effects (advantages (advantages andand disadvantages), disadvantages), as as well well as as thethe selection selection of of the the Preferred Preferred Alternative(s),Alternative(s), are are subject subject to to subsequentsubsequent steps steps of of the the EA. EA. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #4 Includes IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES New Transportation Corridors

What is Group #4-2 ? Group #4-2 Widening of existing New transportation Group #1 and Alternatives highways corridor from Highway Group #2 400 to Highway 401 / Alternatives – Highway 400 407ETR – Highway 401 – Highway 427 – Highway 410 ForFor the the complete complete transit transit initiatives, initiatives, – 407ETR seesee map map in in Group Group #2. #2.

What is Group #4-3 ? Group #4-3 Widening of existing New transportation Group #1 and Alternatives highways corridor from Highway Group #2 400 to Highway 401 Alternatives – Highway 400 west of Milton – Highway 401 For the complete transit – Highway 427 For the complete transit initiatives, see map in – Highway 410 initiatives, see map in – 407ETR GroupGroup #2. #2.

What is Group #4-4 ? Group #4-4 Widening of existing New transportation Group #1 and Alternatives highways corridor from Highway Group #2 400 to north of Guelph Alternatives – Highway 400 – Highway 401 – Highway 427 – Highway 410 ForFor the the complete complete transit transit initiatives, initiatives, – 407ETR seesee map map in in Group Group #2. #2.

What is Group #4-5 ?

Group #4-5 Widening of existing New transportation Group #1 and Alternatives highways corridor from Highway Group #2 400 to south of Guelph Alternatives – Highway 400 – Highway 401 – Highway 427 – Highway 410 ForFor the the complete complete transit transit initiatives, initiatives, – 407ETR seesee map map in in Group Group #2. #2.

TheThe representative representative alternativesalternatives shown shown in in Group Group 4 4 areare intended intended to to illustrate illustrate possiblepossible end end points points and and potentialpotential connections connections to to the the transportationtransportation network. network. SpecificSpecific route route locations/alignmentslocations/alignments of of these these illustrativeillustrative alternatives, alternatives, the the detaileddetailed effects effects (advantages (advantages andand disadvantages), disadvantages), as as well well as as thethe selection selection of of the the Preferred Preferred Alternative(s),Alternative(s), are are subject subject to to subsequentsubsequent steps steps of of the the EA. EA. GROUPS OF MODAL Group #4 IMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT 5 ALTERNATIVES Includes New Transportation Corridors

Group #4: Summary of Our Assessment The assessment of Group #4 builds on and reflects the previous assessment summaries in Group #1, Group #2 and Group #3.

Overall, Group #4 Modal Improvement Alternatives will: • Improve the efficiency of people and goods movement with improved inter-regional transportation system operations, and allow for higher order transit on new higher order roadway • Have impacts on many environmental features (e.g. Greenbelt and crossing of the Niagara Escarpment, farmland, rivers, streams & natural heritage)

Community Economy Environment Transportation • Major potential to improve • New corridors provide economic • Potential to impact, resulting in • Generally addresses people and linkages and accessibility opportunities for industry and loss of and fragmentation of goods movement transportation between the urban areas in the improved trade lands designated by the demands in the GTA West GTA West Corridor • Provide improved access to CP Greenbelt Plan and the Niagara Preliminary Study Area • Address development pressures intermodal terminal in Vaughan Escarpment Plan • Major improvement to efficiency in Peel and York Regions and CN intermodal terminal in • Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 have the of people and goods movement, • Less impacts on community Brampton most potential to impact, resulting with improved inter-regional features, land uses and built-up • Connect major existing and in loss of and fragmentation of transportation system areas emerging nodes that are the lands designated by the operations focus of the logistics/wholesale Greenbelt Plan and the Niagara • Major improvement to • Less impacts on built heritage Escarpment Plan features in communities trade sectors for growth in Halton transportation system throughout Study Area and provide improved access to • Potential to impact many operations and safety these areas for the labour force. significant Environmental • Cross varying portions of the • Major improvement to • Group 4-4 provides significantly Sensitive Areas, Areas of Natural transportation system reliability Niagara Escarpment Plan and & Scientific Interest, wetlands, Greenbelt Plan designated areas. improved access to eco- and redundancy with new recreational areas many of which groundwater recharge areas, transportation corridor Groups 4-4 and 4-5 cross the especially those west of largest sections of the Niagara are located along the Niagara • Major potential to improve Escarpment Georgetown, although some Escarpment Plan and Greenbelt features can be avoided through modal integration for people and Plan lands • Group 4-5 would enhance the route selection process and goods movement • Potential to change or affect the area’s economic competitiveness design of crossings • Major potential to improve “rural” character of some by improving access to existing linkages and accessibility and planned industrial areas and • New corridor alternatives have communities most potential to impact surface between the urban areas in the intermodal facilities, taking GTA West Corridor • Potential increased nuisance pressure off municipal roads, water conditions impacts (i.e. noise, illumination reducing the cost of congestion, • Groups 4-4 and 4-5 have • Major improvement to recreation etc.) in areas closest to new and enhancing transportation potential for major resource and tourism travel and corridor system efficiency and reliability / consumption, based on their directness of routes to tourist/ • Potential fragmentation of redundancy for growth centres length recreation destinations in the GTA and northern Ontario agricultural operations and loss throughout the Study Area, from • Group 4-5 impacts Halton shale of Class 1 lands Vaughan to Guelph and on to deposits • Allows for higher order transit on Kitchener-Waterloo new higher order roadway • New crossing of Humber River • New corridors offer some has potential to impact Canadian • Provide service to existing and opportunities to increase • Significant constructability and Heritage River and Trails future industry separation distance between staging issues (including Toronto Carrying Place • Support improved connections built-up areas and transportation • Groups 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 provide Trail) – although impacts can be for intra-provincial and corridor limited roadway redundancy minimized through design and international tourism, including improvements in the western span of new structures • New corridors offer some to/from Toronto Pearson opportunities to minimize impacts portion of the Study Area International Airport • Potential impacts to at environmentally sensitive • Groups 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 provide archaeological resources in • Improve linkages between the features through route selection limited roadway improvements previously undisturbed areas urban areas through network phases and design of new to Guelph • Potential to impact cultural redundancy crossings, structures, etc. features near Norval (Groups 4-2 • Potential impacts on linked and 4-3), Ballinafad and agricultural operations although AlternativesAlternatives under under Group Group #4 #4 Modal Modal Cheltenham (Group 4-4) and route selection process and ImprovementImprovement Alternatives Alternatives will will be be examined examined Speyside, Scotch Block and mitigation could reduce impacts Brookville (Group 4-5) andand evaluated evaluated in in further further detail detail following following • Groups 4-1 and 4-2 have limited PICPIC #3 #3 (i.e. (i.e. Stage Stage 3 3 of of the the Transportation Transportation ability to serve Milton/Halton Hills Alternatives Assessment Process) growth areas Alternatives Assessment Process)

Refer to: 3: Process Framework 3 Refer to 6: Next steps 6 NEXT STEPS Evaluation 6 NEXT STEPS

Following PIC #3 an evaluation will be completed using a range of factors and criteria to determine which alternative(s) should be carried forward. During the evaluation and selection phase, the Preliminary Planning Alternative(s) carried forward will be considered in the following process:

Stage 3: Examination and Evaluation of Preliminary Planning Alternatives • Focus on a short list of Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives that have been carried forward based on ability to address the identified Problems and Opportunities and in view of potential environmental, community and economic impacts • Only applies where the preferred group of alternatives has elements within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation or where other Transportation Service Providers support the examination of potential solutions by the Ministry in coordination with the appropriate transportation agencies Generation of Preliminary Planning Alternative(s) • Generate alternative(s) to a level necessary to support the assessment of potential footprint impacts Assessment, Evaluation & Selection of Preliminary Planning Alternative(s) • Quantitative measures (i.e. indicators that can be measured) of potential “footprint” impacts • Qualitative measures (i.e. describing the impact) for potential impacts to systems or functions • The transportation, environmental, economic and community criteria to support the assessment of Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives is outlined in the table on the next display • This set of criteria is based on the factors and criteria from the Term of Reference for the GTA West Study Consultation • Focus on the generation and evaluation of Preliminary Planning Alternative(s) and the identification of a draft Transportation Development Strategy • Meetings with each of the advisory groups (municipality, regulatory agencies and community) • Public Information Centres Recommendation • Following PIC #4, recommend preferred Preliminary Planning Alternative(s) to be carried forward to Stage 2 of the EA Process Factors and criteria to be used in NEXT STEPS 6 the assessment of alternatives

• The transportation, Environmental, Economic and Community criteria to support the assessment of alternatives is outlined in the table • An evaluation process will be used to select the preferred combination alternatives to be carried out to Stage 3: Preliminary Planning • The evaluation process will consider the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative and the relative significance of the potential impacts; resulting in a clear and thorough evaluation of the trade-offs between the various categories. This process will be explained in detail at the next PIC

FACTOR CRITERIA 1. Natural Environmental Factors 1.1 Fish and Fish Habitat Potential to affect sensitive fish habitat and fish community 1.2 Terrestrial Ecosystems Potential to affect: • Provincially and locally significant wetlands • Significant forest and vegetation communities • Significant wildlife habitat and wildlife movement opportunities 1.3 Groundwater Potential to affect: • Areas of groundwater recharge and discharge. • Groundwater source areas and wellhead protection areas. 1.4 Surface Water Potential to affect existing drainage systems associated with permanent watercourses. 1.5 Designated Areas Potential to affect designated areas (as defined through legislation, policies, or approved management plans to have special value) 2. Land Use / Socio-Economic Environment Factors 2.1 Land Use Planning Policies, Plans, Goals, Objectives Potential to affect areas for which there are First Nations outstanding land claims or treaties. Potential to support federal/provincial land use policies/plans/goals/objectives and municipal Official Plans. 2.2 Land Use / Community Potential to affect: • Indian Reserves. • First Nations Sacred Grounds. • Urban and residential areas. • Commercial and industrial areas. • Tourist areas and attractions. • Major community facilities and institutions. 2.3 Noise Potential for increased transportation noise in Noise Sensitive Areas (NSAs) (residential areas and sensitive institutional uses). 2.4 Air Potential for exposure of sensitive receptors to various levels of air pollution (including extent and duration of exposure) Incremental annual amount of air pollutants emitted into the region for the horizon year Incremental annual amounts of greenhouse gases emitted per annum for the horizon year 2.5 Land Use / Resources Potential to affect: • First Nations Treaty Rights and Interests or use of land and resources for traditional purposes. • Specialty crop areas and/or areas of Canada Land Inventory Classes 1, 2 and 3 soils • Parks and recreational areas. • Aggregate and mineral resources sites. 2.6 Municipal Services Potential to affect major utility transmission corridors. 2.7 Contaminated Property Identification and Management Potential to release of existing site contamination from landfills (open and closed), hazardous waste sites and other known contaminated sites. 3. Cultural Environmental Factors 3.1 Cultural Heritage – Built Heritage and Cultural Heritage Potential to affect: Landscapes • Buildings or “standing“ sites of extreme local, provincial or national interest or Ontario Heritage properties. • Significant heritage bridges. • Areas of historic 19th century settlement. • Known cemeteries. • Known burial sites. 3.2 Cultural Heritage - Archaeology Potential to affect: • Significant pre-historic and historic First Nations archaeological sites of extreme local, provincial or national interest. • Historic Euro-Canadian archaeological sites of extreme local, provincial or national interest. 4.0 Area Economy Factors 4.1 First Nations Industry Potential to support First Nations industry in the area by efficient and reliable movement of people and goods 4.2 Industry and Trade Potential to support industry and trade by efficient and reliable goods movement 4.3 Tourism and Recreation Industry Potential to support tourism and recreation industry by efficient and reliable movement of people. 4.4 Agriculture Industry Potential to support area agriculture industry by efficient movement of goods. 5.0 Transportation Factors 5.1 Federal/Provincial/ Municipal transportation planning Potential to support federal/provincial/ municipal transportation planning policies/goals/objectives. policies/ goals/objectives 5.2 Efficient movement of people Potential to support the efficient movement of people between communities and regions based on Level of Service (LOS) and volume to capacity (v/c) on a network, screenline and critical link basis. 5.3 Efficient movement of goods Potential to support efficient movement of goods between urban growth centres and regional intermodal facilities and communities based on road network performance measures (LOS and travel speed). 5.4 System reliability / redundancy Potential to support system reliability and redundancy for travel (people and goods) between regions and communities during adverse conditions. 5.5 Safety Potential to improve traffic safety based on opportunity to reduce congestion on area road network (LOS and v/c). 5.6 Modal integration, balance and efficiency Potential to improve modal choice and increase mode split for person trips between communities, regions and major transit station areas based on travel performance indicators (LOS, v/c, travel speed) at critical screenlines and on potential to provide higher order transit service. 5.7 Linkages to Population and Employment Centres Potential to improve accessibility to urban growth centres for people and goods movement based on higher order network continuity and connectivity. 5.8 Recreation and Tourism Travel Potential to support recreation and tourism travel within and to/from the Preliminary Study Area by provision of higher order network (roads and transit) continuity and connectivity and through network performance indicators (LOS, v/c, travel speed). 5.9 Constructability Potential ease of implementation considering feasibility/difficulty of physical, property or environmental constraints and relative cost (where possible to approximate) 5.10 Traffic Operations Potential impact on traffic operations due to factors such as design features, and transportation network connections. NEXT STEPS PIC #4 and Beyond 6 NEXT STEPS

• Following the selection of the Preferred Preliminary Planning Alternative(s), the Recommended Transportation Development Strategy will be identified • The details of this strategy will be presented for stakeholders review and comment at PIC #4 • Subsequent to PIC #4, a Transportation Needs Assessment Report will be prepared to document the body of work leading to the identification of the Recommended Transportation Development Strategy. This document will be made available for stakeholders review at the completion of Stage 1 of this Study

Process for Pursuing this Strategy • Some elements of the strategy will fall within MTO’s area of responsibility while others will be the responsibility of other agencies

These initiatives will be Elements of the strategy referred to the that fall outside of MTO’s appropriate agency or jurisdiction jurisdiction for further review and action

If Widening of Existing Roads (Group #3) are recommended – the Elements of the strategy Undertake Stage 2 of Provincial Highways within MTO’s jurisdiction this EA Study Class Environmental Assessment process will be followed

If a new transportation corridor is recommended – proceed with Stage 2 (Individual EA process outlined in the Terms of Reference)

Requires formal review and approval by the Minister of the Environment Consultation and Outreach 6 NEXT STEPS

Get Involved

Consultation Framework • Following this Public Information Centre, the Project Team will consider input and respond to questions and comments received • Your comments are encouraged at any time during the Study. Public comments serve to inform the decision making process. All written comments received by email, letter, comment sheet or fax will receive a written response • Interested persons may contact the Project Team regarding issues of concern at any time during the Study. Opportunities for comment and study information are available on the project website

Please visit our website at: www.gta-west.com

What’s available on the website? Consultation and Outreach Maps and Reports • Download Public • Download maps and reports Information Centre material • More reports will be added as the Study progresses

Comment Sheet

or Email: [email protected] or

Comments and information regarding this Study are being collected to assist the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) in meeting the requirements of the Ontario Environmental Assessment (EA) Act. This material will be maintained on file for use during the Study and may be included in study documentation.

Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, solely for the purpose of conducting this EA. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

You are encouraged to contact the MTO Project Team if you have any questions or concerns regarding the above information.

APPENDIX H PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #3 STUDY BROCHURE AND FACTSHEETS

What is Group #4? Group #4-1 ?Group #4 Alternatives include elements from Groups #1, #2 and #3 −Metrolinx RTP −GO 2020 strategies −Transportation Demand Management programs GTA West Public Information Centre #3 November / December 2009 −New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres Group #4-2 PRELIMINARY YORK Current Focus: Transportation Alternatives 89 10 STUDY AREA

NORTH SIMCOE −Expanded inter-regional GO Bus 0 12 km 400 9 Orangeville routes The focus of Public Information Centre #3 is to: PEEL DUFFERIN Bolton Nobleton 10 −Inter-regional transit hubs where Caledon

Vaughan

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I I HAMILTON I east of Milton Cambridge ?New corridor from Highway 401 2007 WE ARE 2010 east to Highway 6 HERE (north or south of Guelph) Transportation Transportation Terms of Reference Problems & Alternatives Development Opportunities Strategy

Alternatives under Group #4 Modal Improvement PIC 1 PIC 2 PIC 3 PIC 4 Alternatives will be examined Our Next Steps and evaluated in further detail Distribution of Population for the GGH 2001-2031 ?Evaluate a short list of Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives in more detail following PIC #3 (i.e. Stage 3 of Planning for Growth 2000 Source: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2006 2031 Transportation Alternatives 2021 ?Evaluation will determine the general impacts on socio-economic, natural ? 2011 Assessment Process) The Greater Golden Horseshoe is one of the fastest growing regions 1500 2001 environment, cultural environment and transportation in North America. It is also the destination of choice for many people and businesses relocating from other parts of Canada and around 1000

Population

(in thousands) EVALUATE the world. They settle here because of the high quality of life and the 500 EVALUATE GENERATE ASSESS AND SELECT RECOMMEND economic opportunities

0 Generation of ? Region of Region of Region of City of Guelph/ Evaluation and Communities within the Greater Golden Horseshoe will continue to York Peel Halton County of Preliminary Wellington Assessment of Selection of the Recommended experience the benefits that come with growth, including vibrant, Planning Evaluation of Preliminary Preferred Transportation Distribution of Employment for the GGH 2001-2031 PIC #3 Alternatives for PIC #4 diversified communities and economies; new and expanded Alternatives Planning Preliminary Development the Preferred community services; and arts, culture and recreation facilities 1000 Source: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2006 2031 Alternatives Planning Strategy 2021 Group of Alternative 2011 Alternatives ? However, without properly managing growth, communities will 2001 continue to experience the negative aspects associated with rapid growth, such as increased traffic congestion, deteriorating air and 500

Employment water quality, and the disappearance of agricultural lands and (in thousands) What Will Be Shown At the Next PIC? natural resources 0 ? Region of Region of Region of City of Guelph/ Generation and evaluation of Preliminary Planning Alternatives York Peel Halton County of Many Improvements Have Already Been Planned Wellington ?Recommended alternative(s) to be carried forward to Stage 2 of the EA process ? This Study builds on planned improvement initiatives by Metrolinx (in the Regional Transportation Plan andGO 2020) and others ? There is an extensive list of planned improvements in optimizing the existing road network and non-road infrastructure How to Contact the Project Team York VIVA 2010 to 2015 GO 2020 Brampton Züm Metrolinx 5-year Service Plan You may also provide written comments Copies of PIC material, study reports and discussion by mail or fax to the Project Team: papers are available on the study website along with Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng. regular project updates, important links and additional McCormick Rankin Corporation project details. The website also has a “Contact Us” 2655 North Sheridan Way, Suite 300 page that allows for direct e-mail with the Project Team. Mississauga, Ontario L5K 2P8 Please Visit us at: Phone: 1-877-522-6916 Fax: (905) 823-8503 www.gta-west.com

E-mail inquiries can be received [email protected] . The inbox is routinely checked, and messages will McCORMICK RANKIN CORPORATION be documented and transferred to the appropriate Project Team member, who will provide a response in a timely manner. GTA West Three Stage Process ? To support the generation and assessment of transportation alternatives PROCESS USED TO DEVELOP ALTERNATIVES AND ASSESSMENT ? Starts with high level of assessment STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3 What is Group #2? ? Following PIC #3, more detailed evaluation will be Examination and Examination and Examination and carried out to further refine and screen out Assessment of Assessment of Evaluation of Group #2 Alternatives include Group #1 Alternatives plus new / improved non-roadway alternatives in advance of Stage 3 Individual Groups of Modal Preliminary Planning infrastructure (e.g. related to transit, rail and air). Group #2 Alternatives include: Alternatives Improvement Alternatives Alternatives ?Additional expanded and improved parking facilities at transit stations There Has Been Extensive Consultation Transportation Demand ? Air Analysis New bus storage in Aberfoyle ? A variety of stakeholders have provided ideas on Management (TDM) ?Freight Rail, Air and Marine initiatives to be pursued by others possible alternatives To what extent does the Group Transportation ?Rapid Transit ?Regional Rail Service System of Modal Improvement − Community Advisory Group − First Nations Freight Rail Management Alternatives meet the - Steeles Ave. area (Lisgar GO to Highway 427) - Bolton from Union Station − − (TSM) Regulatory Agency Advisory Upper Tier Councils transportation objectives of - Highway 427 (Toronto Pearson International Airport to - Expansion of the Georgetown north corridor Downtown Group − Transportation Service this Study? Queen Street) Brampton / Milton Transit Intermodal − Municipal Advisory Group Providers - Hurontario St. (Port Credit to Downtown Brampton) - Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station − Public Information Centres − Business & Commercial High level assessment of - 407ETR (Toronto Pearson International Airport to - Service extension from Milton to Cambridge Roads & Environmental, Economic and Stakeholders Marine Highway 427) ?Express Rail Highways Community factors. - Finch Ave. West (Toronto Pearson International Airport to - Richmond Hill / Langstaff Gateway to Union Station

Strategies Finch Station) - Downtown Brampton to Union Station - Highway 10 (Mayfield West to Downtown Brampton) - Highway 7 (Peel-York boundary to Locust Hill/Markham) Metrolinx RTP & GO 2020 - 407ETR (Halton to Durham) Group #2 alternatives do not fully address - Trafalgar Rd. / Main St. (Downtown Milton to 407ETR) the transportation Problems and - Brampton Züm (Downtown Brampton to Peel-York Boundary) Opportunities. They will therefore be carried Transit Freight Rail Intermodal Air Marine TDM / TSM forward for further consideration in combination with Group #3 alternatives What If We Only Improve One Transportation Mode? ? STAGE 1 - KEY OUTCOME Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes ? High level assessment was carried out for single mode transportation alternatives No single transportation mode is ?Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph) (e.g. one of Freight Rail, Marine, Air, Transportation Demand Management / Transportation capable of fully addressing the ? System Management, Transit, Intermodal Facilities or Roads & Highways) New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres (Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton, Vaughan

transportation Problems and Strategies Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph) ? Elements of single mode alternatives are carried forward to form Groups of Modal Opportunities Improvement Alternatives

GTAW Project Team GTAW Group #1 Optimize Existing Networks ? Transit ? Marine ? Rail ? TDM Alternatives under Group #3 Single Mode Improvements Are Not Enough – We Need To Combine Them ? Roads & Highways ? TSM ? Air ? Intermodal Modal Improvement ? Combine various elements of the single mode alternatives Alternatives will be examined Group #2 ? Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives were assessed at a high level to New / Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure and evaluated in further detail determine likely advantages and disadvantages of each based on a variety of ? Group #1 plus following PIC #3 (i.e. Stage 3 of ? Transit features and criteria ? Rail What is Group #3? Transportation Alternatives Assessment Process) Group #3 Group #4 ? Widen / Improve Roads New Transportation Corridors Group #3 Alternatives include elements from Groups #1 and #2 Comparison of Advantages What is Group #1? and Disadvantages ? Group #2 plus ? Environment ? Elements of Group #3 plus − ? Widen / Improve Roads & Highways ? Community ? New Transportation Corridors Metrolinx RTP The following individual ideas form the basis for Group #1: ? Economy Group #3-1 ? Transportation −GO 2020 strategies ? Improved access to transit stations for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists −Transportation Demand Management / Transportation ? More is needed to sufficiently Improved integration of active transportation opportunities and transit System Management programs (e.g. secure storage facilities at transit stations, bicycle storage on transit vehicles, etc) address transportation Problems − ?Expanded use of roadway shoulders during peak travel periods and Opportunities. Group #1 New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres improvements will therefore be ? − Improved scheduling and fare integration between inter-regional and local transit providers carried forward for further Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes ?Use of real time trip planning information technologies for transit users and drivers consideration in combination −Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit

Metrolinx RTP & ?Increased / improved transit service frequency with Group #2 alternatives connect (i.e. Guelph)

GO 2020 Strategies ?Speed harmonization – reduced speeds during times of congestion facilitate improved traffic flow (e.g. lane control signs) ?Widened provincial highways (Highways 401, 410, 427 and ?Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs - provincial co-ordination and employer sponsorship of programs 400) and 407ETR improves the effectiveness of TDM initiatives (e.g. Smart Commute) OR WITH Group #3-2 Group #3-3 ?Ramp metering systems – regulated auto access to sections of highway reducing local congestion ?Widened regional ?Transit / HOV bypass locations – bypass lanes using metered ramps and direct ramp access to transit stations/carpool lots / county roads for HOV and transit vehicles Strategies ?Incident management and detection – improved detection and response to emergencies/incidents for more timely clearance ?Operational improvements at localized bottlenecks to ease traffic flow

GTAW Project Team GTAW Three Stage Process ? To support the generation and assessment of transportation alternatives PROCESS USED TO DEVELOP ALTERNATIVES AND ASSESSMENT ? Starts with high level of assessment STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3 What is Group #2? ? Following PIC #3, more detailed evaluation will be Examination and Examination and Examination and carried out to further refine and screen out Assessment of Assessment of Evaluation of Group #2 Alternatives include Group #1 Alternatives plus new / improved non-roadway alternatives in advance of Stage 3 Individual Groups of Modal Preliminary Planning infrastructure (e.g. related to transit, rail and air). Group #2 Alternatives include: Alternatives Improvement Alternatives Alternatives ?Additional expanded and improved parking facilities at transit stations There Has Been Extensive Consultation Transportation Demand ? Air Analysis New bus storage in Aberfoyle ? A variety of stakeholders have provided ideas on Management (TDM) ?Freight Rail, Air and Marine initiatives to be pursued by others possible alternatives To what extent does the Group Transportation ?Rapid Transit ?Regional Rail Service System of Modal Improvement − Community Advisory Group − First Nations Freight Rail Management Alternatives meet the - Steeles Ave. area (Lisgar GO to Highway 427) - Bolton from Union Station − − (TSM) Regulatory Agency Advisory Upper Tier Councils transportation objectives of - Highway 427 (Toronto Pearson International Airport to - Expansion of the Georgetown north corridor Downtown Group − Transportation Service this Study? Queen Street) Brampton / Milton Transit Intermodal − Municipal Advisory Group Providers - Hurontario St. (Port Credit to Downtown Brampton) - Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station − Public Information Centres − Business & Commercial High level assessment of - 407ETR (Toronto Pearson International Airport to - Service extension from Milton to Cambridge Roads & Environmental, Economic and Stakeholders Marine Highway 427) ?Express Rail Highways Community factors. - Finch Ave. West (Toronto Pearson International Airport to - Richmond Hill / Langstaff Gateway to Union Station

transportation Problems and Strategies Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph) ? Elements of single mode alternatives are carried forward to form Groups of Modal Opportunities Improvement Alternatives

Metrolinx RTP & ?Increased / improved transit service frequency with Group #2 alternatives connect (i.e. Guelph)

GTAW Project Team GTAW What is Group #4? Group #4-1 ?Group #4 Alternatives include elements from Groups #1, #2 and #3 −Metrolinx RTP −GO 2020 strategies −Transportation Demand Management programs GTA West Public Information Centre #3 November / December 2009 −New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres Group #4-2 PRELIMINARY YORK Current Focus: Transportation Alternatives 89 10 STUDY AREA

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Population

(in thousands) EVALUATE the world. They settle here because of the high quality of life and the 500 EVALUATE GENERATE ASSESS AND SELECT RECOMMEND economic opportunities

E-mail inquiries can be received [email protected] . The inbox is routinely checked, and messages will McCORMICK RANKIN CORPORATION be documented and transferred to the appropriate Project Team member, who will provide a response in a timely manner. GTA West CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS WHAT DOES THE FEDERAL EA PROCESS Why is this important to the study? INVOLVE?

The GTA West Corridor EA study is subject to the There are four types of federal environmental Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (EAA); it assessments: screenings, comprehensive studies, may also be subject to the requirements of the mediations and review panels. Federal authorities and Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA). agencies lead screenings and comprehensive studies; The requirements under CEAA are different from mediations and review panels are conducted independent the Ontario EAA. The most significant difference of government involvement. The majority of projects involves timing of when the Acts are triggered. subject to a federal EA will undergo either a screening or The Ontario EA process is initiated at the a comprehensive study. conception of a project; under CEAA, an EA is not There are four key steps to an environmental assessment initiated until there is a specific trigger. For MTO under CEAA. They include: projects, this typically occurs much later in the study process. 1. Describing the project in detail; 2. Evaluating the negative environmental effects; WHAT IS THE CANADIAN 3. Determining ways to eliminate or reduce ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ACT? negative effects on the environment; and The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) is a 4. Determining the significance of the residual federal law administered by the Canadian Environmental adverse environmental effects. Assessment Agency. It requires that the environmental effects of a proposed project be carefully considered before construction can begin. COORDINATED EA PROCESS FOR MTO PROJECTS It requires that federal authorities and agencies ensure that environmental assessments (EA) are conducted on Ontario and the federal government have agreed to federally led projects, or where federal land or financial coordinate their respective EA processes as outlined in the assistance, or certain regulatory responsibilities (e.g., Canada-Ontario Agreement for Environmental Assessment issuance of permits, authorizations etc.) apply. Cooperation (November 2004). As a result, MTO is committed to working in a coordinated manner with both Triggers for the CEAA include e.g. federal funding, the provincial and federal governments. For information federal lands, and federal approval. specific to the GTA West Corridor EA study, refer to the EA Terms of Reference (http://www.gta-west.com) which P.E.A.T. Process for Determining if CEAA Applies includes the process chart outlining how the study tasks and EA requirements will be coordinated. No Is There a Project? STATUS OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Yes INVOLVEMENT Yes Is the Project Excluded? In anticipation of CEAA being triggered, representatives of No the federal departments with an interest (e.g. No Environment, Fisheries and Oceans, Transport Canada, Is There a Federal Authority? Health) are “informally” engaged by participating on the Yes Regulatory Agencies Advisory Group (RAAG). In addition No to becoming familiar with the project early in its planning Is There a Trigger? stages, this provides the departments with the Yes opportunity to provide the study team with expected assessment information requirements - making EA Act Does coordination achievable. CEAA Applies Not Apply

More information on the Canadian Environmental Contact Information Assessment Act is available at: GTA West Project Team http://www.ceaa.gc.ca/013/index_e.htm www.gta-west.com Email: [email protected] ECONOMIC CONTEXT – GTAW Preliminary Study Area

Total Annual Trade = US$375 Billion - Of Ontario Exports, 90% is exported to the USA with the auto sector representing 70%. - Of Ontario Imports, 65% is imported from the USA with the auto sector representing 60%. The automotive industry represents the largest trade sector with the USA and represents a significant employment base of over 90,000 employees and over 400 manufacturing facilities.

Auto Plants within/in proximity to the preliminary study area include: -Chrysler Plant, Brampton -Honda Plant, Alliston -Toyota Plants, Cambridge & Woodstock GTAW Preliminary Study Area and Linkages to/from Other Transportation Regional Hubs and Gateways PRELIMINARY STUDY AREA PROFILE Economic activities in the Greater Golden Horseshoe are evolving from a Toronto Centric POPULATION & EMPLOYMENT GROWTH FROM Business District-based condition to an economy 2006 TO 2031 of multiple centres. In addition to Downtown Toronto, the Guelph / Kitchener-Waterloo / Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Cambridge triangle is becoming an important Population: +2,930,000 (34% growth) area in addition to Downtown Toronto and the Employment: +1,250,000 (29% growth) several economic centres that surround it (such as Brampton, Vaughan and Milton). Preliminary Study Area Growth: Population: +750,000 (75% growth) CENTRAL AND SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO Employment: +390,000 (75% growth) GROWTH Between 2000 and 2006, nearly 40 million ft2 of Population: Expected to increase from 12.1M industrial space was absorbed in the Regions of (2006) to 16.4M (2031), 35% growth rate. Peel and Halton, while the industrial space Key growth will occur in Vaughan / Brampton / absorption in the Region of Durham and City of Kitchener - Waterloo Toronto were negative.

Employment: Significant growth is expected Employment Sectors with Largest Anticipated to occur in Niagara, Hamilton, Halton, York, Growth are: Peel and Wellington / Guelph areas. A 70% growth rate is predicted between 2001 to -Business Services 2031. -Retail Trade -Education & Health Services -Wholesale Trade ONTARIO TRADE TO USA Growth in these sectors suggest increases in Over 37% of the Canadian Gross Domestic Product passenger and freight services will be required. (GDP) is from exports to USA. The export and import industry is a major economic driver for Ontario. ECONOMIC PROFILE – Ontario and Greater Golden Horseshoe

ECONOMIC FOCUS AREAS

The changes in employment sectors will impact transportation services including the following economic focus areas:

Airport Supernode: Transportation / Warehouse / Wholesale, and Distribution activities shifting west

Milton Strip: Emerging Distribution Centre

Guelph Area: Auto Parts & Food Processing Sectors, and Trucking Distribution Centre

TRUCK FLOW An Overview of the 1999/2000 Average Daily Cargo Values and CHARACTERISTICS Volumes for the Provincial Highway System Survey information indicates that the Highway 401 corridor through the GTA West Preliminary Study Area carries approximately 22,000 trucks per day and transports commodity values of approximately $900 million per day. West of the GTA West Preliminary Study Area, the Highway 401 corridor carries approximately 16,000 trucks per day with commodity value of $740 million.

Contact Information GTA West Project Team www.gta-west.com Email: [email protected] GREENBELT PLAN

Why is this feature important to the study? VISION

The Greenbelt is a cornerstone of Ontario’s The Greenbelt is a broad band of permanently protected Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Plan which land which: is an overarching strategy that will provide clarity and certainty about urban structure, • Protects against the loss and fragmentation of the where and how future growth should be agricultural land base and supports agriculture as the accommodated, and what must be protected predominant land use; for current and future generations • Gives permanent protection to the natural heritage and water resource systems that sustain ecological and human health and that form the environmental framework around which major urbanization in south- WHAT IS THE GREENBELT? central Ontario will be organized; and The greenbelt is 1.8 million acres of land stretching from • Provides for a diverse range of economic and social the Niagara Peninsula in the southwest to Rice Lake in activities associated with rural communities, the east. It includes some of the most threatened agriculture, tourism, recreation and resource uses. environmentally sensitive and agricultural lands – protecting them from major urban development, while GOALS AND OBJECTIVES meeting the needs of growing communities in the Golden To enhance our urban and rural areas and overall quality Horseshoe. The greenbelt includes the 800,000 acres of of life by promoting the following matters within the land protected by the Niagara Escarpment Plan and the Protected Countryside: Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. It also includes 1 million newly protected acres known as the protected • Agriculture Protection countryside. • Environmental Protection The Protected Countryside ‘systems’ follow existing • Culture, Recreation and Tourism designations found in local, regional and county official plans: • Settlement Areas • Infrastructure and Natural resources • Natural Heritage and Water Resource Systems: necessary to maintain biological and geological diversity, natural functions, and indigenous species POLICY FOR INFRASTRUCTURE and ecosystems. About 535,000 acres, or over 50 per The Plan recognizes that infrastructure is important to cent, of the Protected Countryside are included in the Natural Heritage System. economic well-being, human health and quality of life in southern Ontario and the Greenbelt and that existing • Agricultural System: Provides a continuous and infrastructure must be maintained and new infrastructure permanent land base necessary to support long-term will be needed to continue serving existing and permitted agricultural production and economic activity. Many of land uses within the Greenbelt. The Plan also anticipates the farms within this system also contain important natural heritage and hydrologic features. that new and/or expanded facilities will be needed in the future to serve the substantial growth projected for • Settlement Areas: Includes a number of vibrant southern Ontario. communities designated in municipal official plans and by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal. In this context, Section 4.2 of the Plan sets out specific policies for infrastructure which permits existing, LEGISLATION expanded or new infrastructure subject to approval under relevant legislation within the Protected Countryside The Provincial government was authorized to establish provided that the infrastructure meets one of the following the Greenbelt Area and Plan by the Greenbelt Act, 2005. objectives: (a) it supports agriculture, recreation, tourism The Greenbelt is governed by the policies of: and rural settlements and economic activity existing within the Greenbelt; or, (b) it serves significant growth •The Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP); and economic development in southern Ontario outside •The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP); the Greenbelt through infrastructure connections. •The Parkway Belt West Plan (PBWP) area; and, • The Protected Countryside Policies of the Greenbelt Plan. GREENBELT PLAN

Source: Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Asset1293.aspx)

HOW DOES THE GREENBELT PLAN APPLY TO THIS STUDY?

The Project Team will fully integrate the goals, objectives •avoid key natural heritage features or key hydrologic and policy requirements of the Greenbelt Plan into the features unless need has been demonstrated and it has GTA west Planning and EA study process through been established that there is no reasonable alternative problem definition, alternative evaluation, impact • minimize, wherever possible, the amount of the assessment and mitigation in accordance to the Greenbelt, and particularly the Natural Heritage System, infrastructure policies set out in Section 4.2 of the Plan, traversed and/or occupied by infrastructure including: • minimize, wherever possible, the negative impacts and • Optimize, where practicable, the existing capacity and disturbance of the existing landscape coordination with different infrastructure services Section 3.2 of the Plan includes descriptions and policies for key natural heritage features and key hydrologic features.

Contact Information For information on the Greenbelt Plan, please visit: GTA West Project Team http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page187.aspx www.gta-west.com Email: [email protected] GROWTH PLAN FOR THE GREATER GOLDEN HORSESHOE

WHAT IS THE GROWTH PLAN? Why is this document important to the study? The Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal released the final Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden in June 2006. The Growth Plan outlines a set of policies Horseshoe guides all transportation planning and for managing growth and guiding planning decisions in investment decisions including the GTA West the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) over the next 25 Corridor EA Study that will connect Urban Growth years. The Plan also sets out, in concert with other Centres and provide efficient movement of people provincial plans and the Provincial Policy Statement, the and goods. provincial policies and strategic directions for transit and transportation to create a sustainable, integrated transportation system to meet a more sustainable future. Planning decisions made by the Province, municipalities and other authorities are now required to conform to the SCHEDULE 4 – URBAN GROWTH CENTRES Growth Plan. The Growth Plan aims to: • Revitalize downtowns to become vibrant and convenient centres. • Create complete communities that offer more options for living, working, learning, shopping and playing. • Provide housing options to meet the needs of people at any age. • Curb sprawl and protect farmland and green spaces. • Reduce traffic gridlock by improving access to a greater range of transportation options.

TRANSPORTATION POLICIES IN THE GROWTH PLAN The Growth Plan provides a strategic framework for future transportation investment decisions in the GGH, which includes a need for future transportation corridors between Urban Growth Centres, including those in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area. The Plan envisions that the GGH transportation system will:

• Provide connectivity among transportation modes • Offer a balance of transportation choices to promote sustainable modes •Besustainable by encouraging the most financially and environmentally appropriate mode • Offer multi-modal access to everyday needs • Provide for the safety of system users

The Growth Plan also indicates that the details of actual timing, phasing, and alignments will be, where applicable, determined by further study and the environmental assessment process. GROWTH PLAN FOR THE GREATER GOLDEN HORSESHOE

SCHEDULE 5 – MOVING PEOPLE SCHEDULE 6 – MOVING GOODS Public transit will be the first priority for transportation The first priority of highway investment is to facilitate infrastructure planning and major transportation efficient goods movement by linking inter-modal facilities, investments. international gateways, and communities within the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH). The planning and design of highway corridors, and the land use designations along these corridors, will support the policies of this Plan.

Contact Information For information on the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, GTA West Project Team please visit the Places to Grow website at: http://www.placestogrow.ca/index.php?lang=eng www.gta-west.com Email: [email protected] NIAGARA ESCARPMENT PLAN

Why is this feature important to the study? NIAGARA ESCARPMENT PLAN The Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) (2005), guides land use The Niagara Escarpment is a provincially and within an area defined by the Niagara Escarpment, from the internationally significant geological landform. Bruce Peninsula in the north to the Niagara River in the It contains a large aquifer complex that provides south. It limits development within the NEP area through an important regional hydraulic function. Portions limitations on new lot creation and on permitted uses. The of the Escarpment are found in eight counties or intent is to balance development with preservation and regions, which include 23 local municipalities. It public use. Official plans are required to conform to the NEP is also a significant and unique (map of the area is shown on the following page) and eco-tourist attraction. establishes land use designations, policies and criteria for the protection of lands within its policy area. Land use within the NEP areas is divided into seven designations, the WHAT IS THE NIAGARA ESCARPMENT? first three of which offer the most protection: Stretching 725 km in length from Niagara to Tobermory, the Niagara Escarpment encompasses a range of • Escarpment Natural Area habitats, physiographic regions and land-uses. Its size • Escarpment Protection Area and environmental significance make the Escarpment a • Escarpment Rural Area significant natural heritage feature throughout the GTA • Minor Urban Centre West Corridor Preliminary Study Area. •Urban Area • Escarpment Recreation Area The Niagara Escarpment is classified as a UNESCO World • Mineral Resource Extraction Area Biosphere Reserve. The 194,340 ha of Escarpment land is managed/governed by the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) and the Niagara Escarpment Plan ESCARPMENT NATURAL AREA: (NEP). According to the NEC, it is one of only 13 Includes wetlands, wildlife habitat, woodlands, steep slopes biosphere reserves in Canada.* and ravines, and provincially and regionally significant The Escarpment passes through some of the most ANSIs. These are relatively undisturbed areas that contain heavily developed regions of Canada, although the important natural and cultural heritage features. population living on the Niagara Escarpment lands is relatively low (approximately 120,000). ESCARPMENT PROTECTION AREA: Within the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area, Include areas that have been modified by land use activities, much of Halton Region is part of the Niagara Escarpment that often form as a buffer for Escarpment Natural Areas (i.e. Plan Area. Smaller areas of Wellington County and the agriculture, residential). Region of Peel are also within this Area. ESCARPMENT RURAL AREA:

Important attributes of the Niagara Escarpment are listed These lands also provide a buffer to the more ecologically below: sensitive parts of the Escarpment and encourage compatible rural land uses. • Escarpment sites in the Preliminary Study Area include geological formations, Areas of Natural and Scientific TRANSPORTATION PLANNING Interest (ANSIs) and Environmentally Sensitive Areas CONSIDERATIONS (ESAs), conservation areas and parks, wooded areas, The NEP permits essential transportation facilities in the aquatic systems, rare species and habitat for significant Escarpment Natural Area, where “essential” is defined as species. “that which is deemed necessary to the public interest after • The Escarpment provides tourism and outdoor recreation all alternatives have been considered”. New and expanded opportunities in the region (e.g. Bruce Trail, scenic facilities must have the least possible impact on the natural viewpoints, wildlife viewing opportunities). environment and be consistent with the objectives of the Plan. • The Escarpment provides a continuous corridor of natural habitats from the U.S. border to Tobermory, along which migrating birds move at the appropriate seasons. (* Source: www.escarpment.org/biosphere/about_nebr.htm) (General Source: The Niagara Escarpment Commission) NIAGARA ESCARPMENT PLAN

Information on the Niagara Escarpment and the Niagara Escarpment Plan are available at the following sources: Contact Information GTA West Project Team Niagara Escarpment Commission: http://www.escarpment.org/ www.gta-west.com Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/ Email: [email protected] ONTARIO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Why is this important to the study? CONSULTATION

The planning for all major infrastructure Throughout the EA study, the public must be given an projects in the Province of Ontario is opportunity to participate and to provide input on the conducted in accordance with the proposed project. Typically, this includes the general requirements of the Ontario Environmental public, property owners, municipal representatives, Assessment Act (OEAA) (R.S.O. 1990) special interest groups, federal and provincial unless otherwise exempted. government agencies, and affected First Nations.

WHAT IS THE ONTARIO ENVIRONMENTAL WHAT IS AN INDIVIDUAL EA? ASSESSMENT ACT (OEAA)? Large and complex projects with the potential for significant The Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (EAA) environmental impacts are subject to an Individual EA provides a planning and decision-making process to process. As a first step, the proponent must prepare a evaluate the potential environmental effects of a Terms of Reference (ToR) – a plan for completing the EA proposed undertaking (project). process. Once the ToR is approved, the proponent’s second step is to conduct the EA which, when completed is WHO DOES IT APPLY TO? submitted to the Minister of Environment. When preparing both the proposed ToR and the EA, the public must be The EAA applies to all public sector activities. This consulted. The GTA West EA is this type of project. includes projects originating from Ontario ministries and agencies, municipalities, public utilities, and conservation WHAT IS A CLASS EA? authorities. Projects subject to the Act are typically infrastructure developments, and include such things as Projects that are carried out routinely and have predictable public roads and highways, transit facilities, waste and mitigable environmental effects can follow a Class EA management facilities, electrical generation and process. Under a specific class of undertakings (e.g., transit, transmission facilities, and flood protection works. municipal roads, and provincial transportation facilities), these projects are subject to a pre-approved EA process. If HOW DOES IT WORK? the prescribed planning process is followed, no further approval is required. The EAA ensures that the environment is fully characterized and considered as part of the project ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AS IT planning process. It achieves this by requiring APPLIES TO THE GTA WEST CORRIDOR proponents (i.e., the person, the corporation, or the government body proposing the project) to prepare an Transportation planning projects, like the GTA West Corridor, environmental assessment document that includes: are subject to the Ontario EAA. Given the size and scale of the GTA West Corridor and the potential for a wide range of • A description of the project; environmental effects, the Ministry of Transportation is • A review of all reasonable alternatives for addressing following the Individual EA process. The Terms of Reference the project; (ToR) for this Individual EA was approved by the Minister of • A description of the environment that could be the Environment (MOE) on March 4, 2008. affected by the various alternatives, and the extent of these effects; The current EA study is being undertaken in two stages. • An evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages Stage 1 is examining a full range of options (rail, marine, air, of the alternatives, based on the anticipated transit and roadways) for increasing transportation capacity environmental effects; and in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area; it is • The identification of the preferred alternative. expected to be completed in early 2010. Stage 2 will be initiated only if a new MTO undertaking (such as a highway or transitway, or highway widening) is identified as one of the preferred solutions. If other preferred solutions are identified, these will be pursued with other transportation agencies. ONTARIO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS

EA Process for the GTA West Corridor EA Study

STUDY PROCESS FOR THE GTA WEST CORRIDOR EA STUDY

TERMS OF REFERENCE & STAGE 1

1. Preparing of a Terms of Reference (approved in March 2008); 2. Examining transportation problems and opportunities (need for transportation improvements); 3. Screening modal alternatives and assembling combination alternatives (i.e. alternatives to the undertaking); 4. Assessing the alternatives; 5. Identifying preferred alternative(s); and, 6. Recommendations for future study in the GTA West Corridor.

Information on the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act Is available at: Contact Information GTA West Project Team Ministry of the Environment www.gta-west.com http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/envision/ea/index.htm Email: [email protected] OAK RIDGES MORAINE

Why is the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan LAND USE DESIGNATION important to the study? Natural Core Areas (38%) – are lands with the A portion of the GTA West Corridor Preliminary greatest concentrations of key natural heritage features, Study Area falls within the area designated under which are critical to maintaining the integrity of the the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. Moraine as a whole. Only existing uses and very restricted new resource management, agricultural, low- intensity recreational, home businesses, transportation WHAT IS THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE? and utilities are allowed. The Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM) is one of Ontario's most significant landforms - an irregular ridge Natural Linkage Areas (24%) – are critical natural stretching 160 kilometres from the Trent River in the and open space linkages between Natural Core Areas east to the Niagara Escarpment in the west. Together and along rivers and streams. Allowed uses are with the Escarpment, the ORM forms the foundation consistent with those of Natural Core Areas, plus some of south-central Ontario's natural heritage and aggregate resource operations. greenspace systems. Countryside Areas (30%) – are agricultural and rural The ORM is a unique concentration of environmental, transitions /buffers between the Natural Core Areas / geological and hydrological features, vital to the Linkage Areas and the urbanized Settlement Areas. ecosystem integrity / health of south central Ontario Allowed uses are those consistent with those of that includes: agricultural and other rural areas. • clean and abundant water resources, Settlement Areas (8%) – are a range of existing • healthy and diverse plant and animal habitats, communities planned by municipalities to reflect • attractive and distinct landscapes, community needs and values. Allowed uses: urban uses • prime agricultural areas, and and development as set out in municipal official plans. • sand and gravel resources.

LEGISLATION The Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM) Conservation Plan clarifies the long-term protection and management of the 190,000 hectares within the Moraine. All decisions made under the Planning Act, the Condominium Act, or other prescribed matter must conform to the ORM Plan. The Ministry of Transportation is required to comply with Environmental Protection Requirements for the ORM in the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of all highways located in ORM Conservation Plan areas. The Plan divides the ORM into four land use designations: Natural Core Areas, Natural Linkage Areas, Countryside Areas and Settlement Areas. Source: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Asset1873.aspx

Contact Information More information on the Oak Ridges Moraine is available at: GTA West Project Team http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page322.aspx www.gta-west.com Email: [email protected] TRANSPORTATION PROFILE – GTAW Preliminary Study Area

TRAFFIC CHARACTERISTICS AND GROWTH AT REPRESENTATIVE ROADWAY LOCATIONS

DAILY TRAFFIC FLOW

Number of Location % Trucks Vehicles

Hwy 401 at Credit River 175,000 13%

Hwy 7 at Winston Churchill Blvd 22,000 15%

Waterloo Regional 18,500 8% TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS Road 24 TRANSPORTATION SERVICES Peel Regional Road 50 45,000 10% ROAD SYSTEM Freeways = 625 Lane Km HISTORICAL TRAFFIC FLOW Highways = 175 Lane Km Arterials = 2,850 Lane Km Fold % Annual Location Increase Growth INTER-REGIONAL TRANSIT (RAIL AND BUS) since 1960 since 1995 GO Rail (Georgetown Line) Hwy 401 at Credit GO Bus (Hwy 401 / Hwy 407) 13 5% Coach Canada River Greyhound (Hwy 401) Hwy 7 at Winston VIA (Sarnia & Windsor) Churchill Blvd 52%

EXISTING TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS Waterloo Regional Road 24 74%

Many trips occur within local areas and are not inter- Peel Regional regional, particularly for auto trips. The following are Road 50 20 9% some examples: CONGESTION AREAS Approximate % of % Auto Municipality internal trip (internal trips) Congestion becomes noticeable when roads are at or approaching capacity (Level of Waterloo Region 90% 82% Service E), e.g.: - Highway 401 at Credit River City of Guelph 80% 78% - Highway 7 at Winston Churchill Blvd - Waterloo Regional Road 24 Wellington County 50% 80% When roads are at capacity, they are generally considered unacceptable by drivers Halton Region 65% 81% (Level-of-Service F), e.g.: - Peel Regional Road 50 Town of Caledon 40% 82%

City of Brampton 60% 81% Contact Information GTA West Project Team www.gta-west.com Email: [email protected]

APPENDIX I COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP MEETING #4 AND #5 SUMMARY NOTES

Meeting summary of:

GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study Community Advisory Group Meeting #4

Meeting Date/Location:

July 14, 2009 Four Points at Sheraton, Meadowvale Room Mississauga, Ontario

Summary of Meeting Highlights

Opening Remarks

Glenn Pothier, the independent meeting facilitator, called the group to order, welcomed and thanked all participants for taking time out of their schedules to attend the session, and encouraged the group to take the opportunity to participate fully in the meeting. He then provided an overview of the meeting’s purpose/agenda, noting that the meeting had four main objectives:

1. Update the Community Advisory Group (CAG) on the project’s status (including recent meetings and accomplishments); 2. Present and get feedback on the process for generating, assessing and selecting potential transportation strategies; 3. Generate CAG ideas for potential strategies and alternatives that can address the range of transportation-related problems and opportunities associated with the corridor; and 4. Outline next steps and what’s upcoming in terms of project process.

At the facilitator’s invitation, project team members introduced themselves and noted their roles in the study. CAG participants then introduced themselves.

Mr. Pothier then noted that one participant had requested an addition to the previous CAG meeting summary (Feb. 5th/09) and reviewed the suggested change with the group. The CAG agreed that it would be appropriate to add the following on page eight of the summary (below Question two, Table Two Responses):

Table 2 Comment: A significant portion of the current inter-regional people and goods movement must pass through the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as there is no convenient alternative route. A transportation corridor should exist that connects northern Ontario with the western and eastern parts of the province and that bypasses the GTA. This would particularly help to ease the movement of goods between Sarnia and Montreal. The GTA West Corridor Study shouldn’t be analyzed in isolation — it should help solve the larger people and goods movement problems that exist in southern Ontario.

[Note: The purpose of the study is to provide better linkages between certain Urban Growth Centres identified in the Growth Plan, such as Downtown Guelph, Downtown Milton, Brampton City Centre and Vaughan Corporate Centre. Transportation connections extending to the Sarnia and Montreal areas are outside of the scope of the proposed EA study, however, they may be identified as linkages that will be required beyond the immediate study area. Traffic in the GTA West Corridor, whether point-to-point or flow-through, is accounted for in the modeling.]

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 2

Next, there was a call for any further errors or omissions concerning the Feb. 5th meeting summary. None were raised. With the above noted change, the Feb. 5th summary will be considered final.

Observer Comments

Mr. Pothier reminded the group that in the interest of openness, transparency and accountability, any member of the public can attend a CAG meeting as an observer. Following the facilitator’s invitation, there were no comments/questions forthcoming during this first of two ‘observer comment’ agenda components.

Presentation

M. Bricks, Ecoplans, provided a brief overview of the study purpose, study area and overall study process. He noted that the draft Overview of Transportation and Economic Conditions Report, and the draft Overview of Environmental Conditions and Constraints Report have been prepared and are available on the project website. The next step moving forward is the generation of alternatives, using the “building block” approach, which is the focus of CAG Meeting #4. Recent events include meetings with the Regulatory Agencies Advisory Group, Municipal Advisory Group, as well as an internal ‘Think Tank’ Session with the Project Team and their specialists.

Mr. Bricks noted the following key concepts regarding the development and assessment of alternatives: • There will be an increasing level of detail as the process moves forward; • Environmental considerations (in the broadest sense of the term) are being applied early in the study process based on secondary source information; • The “Base Case” scenario includes MTO planned improvements, the Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan, the GO Transit 2020 Service Plan, and approved Municipal Official Plans and Transportation Masters Plans; and • The focus of the study is to identify a multi-modal transportation solution.

In general, the process for generating alternatives can be described as a three-stage ‘building block’ approach:

1) Examination and analysis of individual modal alternatives; 2) Examination and analysis of combination alternatives; and 3) Examination and analysis of preliminary planning alternatives.

The combination alternatives can be broadly divided into four groups:

Combo 1: Optimize existing network Combo 2: Combo 1 + New / Expanded Non-road Infrastructure Combo 3: Combos 1 + 2 + Widen Roads Combo 4: Combos 1 + 2 + elements of 3 + New Road Infrastructure

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 3

A handout illustrating the three-stage process flowchart and a table with evaluation criteria were provided at the meeting. CAG members were asked to review them and provide any comments in the coming weeks. Factors for assessing combination alternatives in stage two of the process are found under four major groups: Transportation, Community, Economy and Environment.

The following questions / comments were shared during and after the presentation:

Question/Comment: Is the MAG involvement an ongoing activity? Can information from the CAG meetings be shared with municipal officials (e.g. Mayor of Guleph)? It appeared that more sensitive information were presented in the first three CAG meetings.

Response: Municipal representatives are involved in this study through a number of means. Meetings similar to this (MAG meetings) are held. There are also individual one-on-one meetings at the request of municipalities — especially, in existing built up areas where the community is growing and there is a strong interest to discuss land development pressures.

It should be noted that there are representatives from Guelph on the MAG and that City staff would be able to share similar information that are presented hear today with the Mayor. As you know, CAG meetings are open to observers and any information discussed here can be shared with the broader public. However, as described in the CAG Charter, no individual member can speak on behalf of the CAG.

Question: With the current boost in infrastructure spending, are there any incentives to proceed with the project at a faster speed?

Response : The project is proceeding as fast as possible. There are various “planned improvements” by the Province that are already in place. These planned improvements will be designed and constructed at an earlier timeline than this study. Similarly, on a local level, municipalities have projects that may proceed to construction in the more near future. These planned improvements are incorporated into the “base case” scenario for the GTA West and serve as a stimulus to the infrastructure spending.

Phase 1 of this study is scheduled for completion by the end of 2010. Thereafter, components will have to go through individual planning studies. For example, route planning — should it be part of the study recommendations — would take approximately 2-5 years and will have to be approved through the EA process.

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 4

Question/Comment: Does that mean construction to start in year 2035 or 2040? Highway 407 was planned in the 60’s, but did not get built until decades later.

Response: Typically, a study would take 8-10 years from the Terms of Reference to construction. All projects vary and we try to do planning as quickly as possible. Different project teams are involved in various stages and components of the study and, ultimately, any undertaking requires approval by different authorities and government funding/commitment — neither of which is guaranteed. The earliest possible date to begin construction would likely be 2016. Our goal is to have projects ready for the government to act on when the necessary will and funds are there.

Comment: By knowing the earliest time of construction, this gives property owners an idea about when the impact to their property could occur.

Response: [Comment noted]

Comment: Through discussions with people in Asia, and [the Canadian market] is in direct competition with their markets, Asian countries are on a much faster timeline in terms of infrastructure/construction – when they need it, they build it. Here in Canada, commuters are sitting in congestion on Highway 401 and it takes 16 years before something can be built.

Response: [Comment noted]

Workshop on Identifying Potential Transportation Strategies

Transportation Problems

N. Ahmed, MRC, provided a brief review of the inter-regional transportation system problems regarding: road commuters/trucks, transit commuters, tourism / recreation travel, railway and air travel. CAG members were encouraged to consider these problems, challenges and opportunities when offering suggestions in the upcoming workshop.

The following questions/comments were shared during and after the presentation:

Comment: An addition problem should be noted and that is the quality of our roads — there are too many potholes and too much cracked pavement that make travel unsafe. For example, the conditions on Highway 401 are so bad in spring (March / April), it is worth paying the toll and take Highway 407. Poor road conditions lead to accidents, congestion and high vehicle maintenance costs.

Response: [Comment noted]

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 5

Comment: Another problem is the poor construction schedule coordination. For example, construction on a highway caused three lanes to close on a Sunday resulting in congestion and people had to drive on the roadway shoulders. The construction needs to be spread out and not concentrated in one area.

Response : Construction staging is sometimes difficult given that there is limited time in the year for construction activity. The Ministry is trying, for example, to limit construction on long weekends. In addition, the Ministry is currently using (but could make better use of) electronic road signs — and other intelligent transportation system options — to better communicate road conditions and alleviate construction-related congestion. This may be considered as one of the alternatives in the transportation strategy combinations.

Comment: Highway 407 was built using concrete and it will last a long time. The Ministry needs to consider entire life-cycle costs. It may make sense to build with more durable and expensive material.

Response: [Comment noted]

Comment: In the current financial climate, many aircraft are not in use — they have been parked for the foreseeable future. There are no needs for airport expansion or new facilities such as the Pickering airport. The Toronto airport is good enough. Air is not a major factor in this study.

Response: Toronto’s Pearson airport is a major transportation hub and a lot of industries are located in the surrounding area of the airport. While it is recognized that not all goods can be delivered through air, it is important to provide a road linkage to the airport.

Comment: The Waterloo Region airport is growing rapidly and could draw people who are destined to Toronto’s Pearson off Highway 401 and help to reduce traffic/congestion.

Response: [Comment noted]

Comment: In Europe, they have dedicated radio stations that deliver frequent updates on traffic.

Response: [Comment noted]

Comment/Question: There are no overall transportation strategies or directions provided by the government. For example, in Japan, their government is committed to “people come first,” and this principle is the foundation of their transportation network. Consumers get lots of choice and there is a commitment to customer service. Are there similar frameworks or direction by the government?

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 6

Response: While the government certainly provides some current direction, this may be considered as one of the alternatives where policy changes are required. The study is open to ‘out of the box’ thinking and innovative policy and directions.

Generation of Alternatives

Following the review of the problems and opportunities, and the ensuing above-noted discussion, G. Pothier introduced the workshop component of the meeting noting that:

• The focus is on generating potential alternatives and strategies that can meaningfully address the range of transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West corridor — and that the focus this evening is on generating ideas, not debating their relative merits; • All ideas will be recorded (though not necessarily adopted!); and • To give the idea generation some structure, the process will follow the ‘building block’ approach described earlier and be based on the four themes:

Combo 1: Optimize the existing network Combo 2: Combo 1 + New / Expanded Non-road Infrastructure Combo 3: Combos 1 +2 + Widen Roads Combo 4: Combos 1 +2 + elements of 3 + New Road Infrastructure

During the following plenary discussion moderated by G. Pothier/N. Ahmed, participants generated a variety of ideas that were recorded on screen under the four different combination headings. A copy of the notes taken during this workshop exercise is attached (please note that the ideas are shown in no particular order and that some categories of response include both comments and ideas). In addition, some ideas are included in the categories as they were provided at the meeting by members of the CAG and may not directly reflect the topic of discussion at that time (i.e. the combination headings).

CAG members were invited to submit additional ideas to the Project Team following the meeting. Please note that comments received following the CAG meeting will be reviewed by the Project Team and will be kept on file but are not included in this summary.

What’s Next

N. Ahmed reviewed the next steps in the study: • Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report available for stakeholder review (summer 2009); • Develop and assess combination alternatives (summer 2009); • Final Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report (late summer 2009); • Next CAG meeting (Early fall 2009); and • PIC #3 (Late fall 2009).

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 7

Open Forum and Observer Comments

Glenn Pothier asked whether the Project Team or CAG members had any further business to add to the meeting agenda. There were no additions. He then made the ‘second call’ for observer comments. None were forthcoming. CAG members were invited to forward any additional post-meeting comments to the Project Team.

Closing Remarks

Glenn Pothier thanked the group for their attendance and valued input.

The meeting was formally adjourned (having run from approximately 7:10 pm to 9:20 pm).

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 8

Attendance (names listed in no particular order)

CAG Members:

Public/Observers:

Ontario Ministry of Transportation: Frank Pravitz Heide Garbot

Consultant Team: Neil Ahmed (McCormick Rankin Corporation) Mike Bricks (Ecoplans Limited) Katherine Jim (McCormick Rankin Corporation)

Independent Facilitator: Glenn Pothier (GLPi)

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #4 — July 14/09 9 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks

• Frequent 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. GO Transit services (then hourly) • Road conditions information on a government run radio station dedicated to traffic information • Road signs with call numbers re: road information • Citizen band radio to share traffic information • Expedited accident management/clean-up – better defined roles / responsibilities • Better use of parallel roadways • Expand Emergency Detour Routes (better options/signs) • Photo radar and speed limit enforcement • Real time information at on-ramps

1 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks

• Perimeter rail routes for commuters • Drive-on/drive-off (freight/auto) service on trains through the study area • Real time road information available on GPS • Schedules of public transit available in small towns (both paper and electronic) • Increased frequency of GO Transit service (bus and rail) • Better security at GO Transit parking lots • HOV lanes outside City of Toronto • Regular and more frequent road maintenance • Mandatory winter tire use 2 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks

• Truck travel time restrictions – e.g. to off peak periods • Better construction planning / staging • Contra-flow lane use • Electronic destination trip planning • Synchronization of traffic signals • Process analysis to eliminate / address issues • Median screening of opposing traffic • Signal progression (e.g. control by speed) • Enhanced and more focused driver training / testing

3 GTA West Combo 2: Ideas for New/Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure

• Open passenger rail to competition • More targeted incentives for industries to use rail • Train tourism opportunities (e.g. to/from Mohawk Raceway) • Georgetown to Milton shuttle train • Rail corridor through the Greenbelt (job opportunities for Ont.) • Review of regulations to get better use of rail • Transit technology to suit local area needs • Rail hubs outside of the City • Express rail hubs

4 GTA West Combo 2: Ideas for New/Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure

• Study all abandoned rail right-of-ways with a view to reinstatement • Integrate rail and air • Subsidize rail • Courier use of passenger trains • Create new broad-band centres to facilitate telecommuting • Include transitways on major highways • Look at British rail system (other international case studies) • Nationalize rail/bus system and use private operators • Grade separation for road/rail

5 GTA West Combo 3: Ideas for Widening Roads

• Hwy 407 to 35/115 (but with public ownership) • Hwy 124 between Guelph to the 401 at Cambridge • Hwy 124 north to Alliston • Consider province taking back ‘downloaded’ roadways • Improve various existing roads to provide priority for transit • Double the capacity on Hwy 407, reduce the tolls • Mayfield Road to join Hwy 7 – ensure road continuity • Overpasses / interchanges for major arterial roads • Better transitions from freeway to freeway, particularly at congestion points (e.g. Hwy 407/ Hwy 401) • Make all 400 series highways toll roads 6 GTA West Combo 3: Ideas for Widening Roads

• Reduce number of lanes generally to encourage less personal vehicle use • Better define the purpose and function and realistically differentiate between types of road (e.g. agricultural use) • Truck restrictions on certain roads • Realistic / efficient grid truck routes ~ 5km • Acknowledge the role of and maintain heritage roads in their current condition

7 GTA West Combo 4: Ideas for New Road Infrastructure

• North of the Greenbelt – north of Barrie to Sarnia • Woodstock to Alliston (road / rail) • Kitchener/Waterloo to King City • York Region to Kitchener • Highway 400 to Sarnia / Fort Erie • Connect big industries (but do not travel through small communities) • Around Highway 9 – where the future energy market will develop to have road infrastructure to support it • Consider future growth areas • Avoid creating new commuter markets

8 GTA West Combo 4: Ideas for New Road Infrastructure

• North-south linkages (e.g. Highway 401 — north to Georgetown) • Georgetown to Barrie • Bram-west corridor • A signature escarpment crossing • Keep highway out of agriculture areas • Route that connects the existing/abandoned quarries

Summary of:

GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study Community Advisory Group Meeting #5

Meeting Date/Location:

November 5, 2009 Four Points at Sheraton, Meadowvale Room Mississauga, Ontario

Summary of Meeting Highlights

Opening Remarks

1. Update the Community Advisory Group (CAG) on the project’s status; 2. Present and get feedback on the individual mode alternatives, groups of alternatives and the high-level assessment conducted; and 3. Outline next steps and share information on what’s upcoming at the third round of Public Information Centre’s (PICs).

At the facilitator’s invitation, Project Team members introduced themselves and noted their roles in the study. CAG participants then introduced themselves.

The group was then asked if there were any errors or omissions concerning the July 14, 2009 meeting summary. None were identified. However, some CAG members indicated that they had not received a copy of the minutes. These individuals were subsequently given hardcopies of the meeting summary and asked to contact the Project Team if they had any errors or omissions to report. Any input received will be considered prior to finalizing the summary.

Observer Comments

Mr. Pothier reminded the group that in the interest of openness, transparency and accountability, any member of the public can attend a CAG meeting as an observer. He then provided the opportunity for observer comments/questions — as there were no observers present, it was agreed that this agenda item would be skipped.

Study Update Presentation

M. Bricks, Ecoplans Limited, provided a brief overview of the study purpose, described the key features of the study area and the overall study process, provided a transportation problems and opportunities update, reviewed recent/upcoming consultation events and discussed key policy issues. He noted that the Project Team looked at policy changes that may be required in the preliminary study area. Given that broad or larger scale policy changes are beyond the scope of the study, recommendations in these areas will be sent to the Ontario government for further consideration.

M. Bricks also described in detail the three-stage process used to generate alternatives: • Stage 1: Examination and analysis of individual modal alternatives; • Stage 2: Examination and analysis of group of modal improvement alternatives;

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 2

• Stage 3: Examination and analysis of preliminary planning alternatives.

The following comment was shared after the presentation:

Comment: There is not enough emphasis on the fact that most people don’t mind commuting long distances to get to work (60+ km) — and that this is a problem. Years ago this wasn’t an issue. The closer proximity of jobs to places of residence needs to be encouraged in order to end this trend. Most of the people on the roads today are commuting to and from work.

Response: The Project Team recognizes that the transportation problems in the study area are due largely to commuter and goods movement-related issues. These have been studied during the problem and opportunity identification component of the study.

Transportation Alternatives, Groups and High-Level Assessment Presentation

Glenn Pothier introduced the transportation alternatives section of the meeting. He noted that the later workshop component will be focused on getting feedback on the material presented by N. Ahmed, MRC — and that a technique called the POWER tool would be used to help structure the discussion. The POWER tool acronym stands for:

POSITIVES OBJECTIONS WHAT ELSE? ENHANCEMENTS REMEDIES

CAG Members were encouraged to think about and make notes during N. Ahmed’s presentation using the POWER tool as a frame of reference.

N. Ahmed then reviewed the individual mode and group alternatives (a copy of the full set of slides is available under separate cover and has been posted on the project website). He noted that the individual mode alternative discussion papers and the complete high- level evaluation tables would be available at the upcoming PICs.

The following questions/comments were shared during and after the presentation:

Question: Do the complete high-level evaluation tables estimate the percentage of system capacity that could be addressed by each individual mode — that is, what percentage of the problem is solved or addressed by the different groups of alternatives?

Response: No. The focus has been on a higher-level, bigger picture perspective. Modeling was not completed during the production of the individual mode discussion papers. However, our research indicates that

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 3

TDM/TSM could reduce overall vehicle use by an additional 4% beyond the Metrolinx programmed improvements.

Comment: The 407 is not a ‘freeway.’

Response: It’s essentially a freeway with tolls — it is not, by our definition, a provincial freeway in the typical sense of the term.

Question: Can you clarify the age of the base case data and to what year demand was estimated?

Response: The base case data is from 2006. Demand was estimated until 2031.

Comment: The Province should consider raising speed limits.

Response: Comment noted. The project modeling considered variable speed limits. The Project Team has recommended that speed harmonization be considered within the study area to help address certain congestion conditions.

Comment/Question: Group 3-2 recommends widening roads outside of the study area. If the final transportation development strategy includes recommendations outside of the study area, how will their implementation be addressed?

Response: The boundaries of the preliminary study area are approximate and are subject to refinement as the EA progresses. Solutions are not constrained by or limited to the preliminary study area. If alternatives outside of this area were found to have a benefit and were eventually recommended as a part of the final transportation development strategy, the preliminary study area could be modified for their inclusion. There could also be recommendations for studies outside of the area covered by the GTA West initiative.

Comment: I believe the Study area should be extended to Highway 9 — we should not miss the opportunity to do things outside of the preliminary study area.

Response: Again, our solutions are not constrained by the preliminary study area.

Question: Are some of the widenings shown in Groups 3 and 4 already planned?

Response: No. The widenings shown in Groups 3 and 4 are over and above what is currently planned — either additional lanes or widenings extended over a greater length than currently proposed.

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 4

Question: Is the 407 included in some of the widenings?

Response: Yes, it is. In some options it has been made about as wide as it can be.

Comment/Question: At CAG Meeting #3, many in attendance didn’t believe the travel time assumptions used by the Project Team. Changes were made to the materials prior to the PICs. Were these changes reflected in the current materials?

Response: Yes, we increased the travel time assumptions and factored them into the analysis.

Question/Comment: Has the Project Team calculated the cost of each of the alternatives presented? This is an important factor in the evaluation process since infrastructure has a huge cost that will need to be borne by the next generation. We need to know this information.

Response: Not at this time. Cost will be estimated during Stage 3 of the evaluation of alternatives and this information will be ready for the fourth set of PICs.

Question/Comment: Were immigration and economic fluctuations incorporated into the model? These are important issues to consider given that this is a long range planning study.

Response: Yes.

Comment: We can’t afford not to improve transportation infrastructure. If we don’t widen or build new roads we will chase away economic opportunities.

Response: [Comment noted].

Comment: A cost-benefit analysis needs to be completed.

Response: Again, cost will be estimated during Stage 3 as part of the more detailed evaluation of alternatives.

Question: Doesn’t the 409 provide relief for the 401 between the 400 and 427?

Response: Yes, it does to some degree, but it has not eliminated congestion in that area.

Workshop

During the workshop exercise moderated by G. Pothier, participants evaluated and discussed the transportation alternatives, the groupings and the analysis conducted to date using the POWER tool. These thoughts were recorded live and on-screen under the five GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 5

different POWER acronym headings (in the following order): Positives, Objections, Enhancements, Remedies and What Else.

Participants were also asked to identify and provide a rationale for which of the Group 3 and Group 4 alternatives they preferred — including perceptions of relative strengths and weaknesses. These thoughts were also recorded live and on-screen.

A copy of the notes taken during the workshop exercise are attached (please note that the ideas are shown in no particular order and that some categories of response include both comments and ideas). In addition, some ideas are included in the categories as they were provided at the meeting by members of the CAG and may not directly reflect the topic of discussion at that time (i.e. the acronym or group headings).

The following questions/comments were shared during and after the workshop:

Question: Has the Project Team sought municipal input?

Response: Yes. The Project Team has had multiple meetings with a Municipal Advisory Group throughout the course of the study and will present a study update to each region in the preliminary study area via a council/committee meeting prior to PIC #3.

Comment: The recently completed Highway 427 Extension Draft EA Report suggests that this road is already planned.

Response: A member of our project team wrote the Highway 427 Extension Draft EA Report and it states that if a new transportation corridor is identified by the GTA West study, then a link between Highway 427 and this facility would be encouraged. The Highway 427 Extension ends at Major Mackenzie Drive.

Question (from MTO to a CAG member): Are there any closed/underutilized rail links between the Urban Growth Centre’s in the preliminary study area that may not be commonly known?

Response: One exists in the Goderich subdivision, from Guelph to Milton, and travels through Campbellville. The Guelph Line is also underutilized.

J. Wang, MTO, then asked a CAG member (David Graham) if the Project Team could arrange a meeting between him and the Project Team’s rail experts to further discuss rail issues in the preliminary study area. Mr. Graham agreed to participate in such a meeting.

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 6

The Project Team will contact him regarding a possible meeting date. [Subsequently, this meeting took place on November 24, 2009].

What’s Next

N. Ahmed reviewed the next steps in the study and discussed the upcoming third round of PICs. The PIC dates and locations were reviewed: • November 30th – Guelph PIC, River Run Centre • December 3rd – Georgetown PIC, Mold Master Sportsplex • December 8th – Caledon PIC, Brampton Fairgrounds • December 10th – Woodbridge PIC, Le Jardin

CAG Members were encouraged to attend the upcoming PICs and to promote the events to the broader public and the various constituencies that they may represent.

The fourth round of PICs is anticipated to occur in late Spring 2010. The next CAG Meeting will take place prior to these PICs.

The following questions/comments were shared after the presentation:

Comment: The Project Team should plan for CAG meetings to end at 9:30 p.m. All of the meetings have run long and typically end at 9:30 anyways.

Response: [Comment noted].

Comment: The Project Team should send more materials in advance of the meeting. There is only so much that can be shared in a presentation and it leaves one wondering about what more there might be to review and consider.

Response: [Comment noted].

Comment: The Project Team should explore whether there might be a way to tap into any federal government stimulus money.

Response: [Comment noted.]

Comment: Who owns the carbon emissions of building new highways? Have carbon offsets been considered?

Response: There is not currently an answer to that question. As the study progresses, specific measures of the effects on air quality will be developed. An assessment of regional air quality including an examination of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the various alternatives will be completed by PIC #4. Once the final transportation development strategy has been developed, more detailed air quality modeling will be undertaken.

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 7

Open Forum and Observer Comments

Glenn Pothier asked whether the Project Team or CAG members had any further business to add to the meeting agenda. There were no additions. He then made the ‘second call’ for observer comments. None were forthcoming as there were no observers present. CAG members were invited to forward any additional post-meeting comments to the Project Team.

Closing Remarks

Glenn Pothier thanked the group for their attendance and valued input.

The meeting was formally adjourned (having run from approximately 7:10 pm to 9:40 pm).

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 8

Attendance (names listed in no particular order)

CAG Members:

Public/Observers: n/a

Ontario Ministry of Transportation: Frank Pravitz Heide Garbot Jin Wang

Consultant Team: Neil Ahmed (McCormick Rankin Corporation) Mike Bricks (Ecoplans Limited) Catherine Christiani (Ecoplans Limited)

Independent Facilitator: Glenn Pothier (GLPi)

GLPi GTA West CAG Meeting #5 — November 5/09 9 GTA West

POWERPOWER EXERCISEEXERCISE

1 GTA West POSITIVESPOSITIVES

• Visually showing how large roads will need to be in the future • Have built upon existing plans, and have visually shown their components • Tied analysis to real congestion points • Appreciate that past CAG comments have been incorporated into the materials • The Group 4 alternatives have the potential to help solve the problems in the study area • Optimization of the current system was addressed

2 GTA West OBJECTIONSOBJECTIONS

• Due to the length of the EA Process, the Group 4 alternatives may be forced further north given heavy development pressures in the study area • Provincial planning is behind — the province needs to be ahead and shouldn’t always be catching up • Federal government is absent from the process • Groups 4-1 and 4-2 are useless (need at least Group 4-3)

3 GTA West OBJECTIONSOBJECTIONS

• Group 3-3; can’t compare inter-regional roads to provincial freeways due to prevalence of stop lights • New corridors disrupt agricultural communities • There is an underlying assumption that there are no limits to growth • There is the potential for weakness in the planning due to events outside of the project team’s control

4 GTA West OBJECTIONSOBJECTIONS

• New corridors could help promote sprawl • A cost-benefit analysis needs to be conducted on each option • How have peak oil, climate change, international factors, and so forth, been factored in?

5 GTA West ENHANCEMENTSENHANCEMENTS

• The province should have discussions with the federal government — they should also be accountable • Need further integration with the local road network to avoid congestion • Decking/tunneling should be considered • Economic analysis and costing should be conducted • A Food-land loss analysis should be conducted for each scenario

6 GTA West ENHANCEMENTSENHANCEMENTS

• Analyze the environmental effect of infrastructure needs • If there is a new crossing of the escarpment, an iconic/landmark structure should be built • Better utilize abandoned quarries for rail/roads • Re-establish rail right-of-ways • Consider expanding the preliminary study area to Highway 9 • Analyze the economic impact of each scenario on farmers and food supply

7 GTA West REMEDIESREMEDIES

• Speed-up the study process • Provide adequate compensation to those who will be impacted • Target poor agricultural land (for new corridors) • Conduct an adequate and complete sensitivity analysis (for different factors) • Look at the effect that international forces, peak oil, climate change, etc. could have • Consider wildlife/farmer corridors to allow free movement

8 GTA West WHATWHAT ELSE?ELSE?

• Cost of the EA process and the time to get recommendations approved is huge • Calculate the costs of inaction • Analyze the loss of productivity that occurs while we wallow in congestion • Manufacturing is losing business given U.S. policies and made-in-U.S. policy • What can we do to implement the easy savings?

9 GTA West WHATWHAT ELSE?ELSE?

• Need to consider the competitiveness of our economy in relation to others • Consider conducting a trends analysis • Review Rubin’s work

10 GTA West

GROUPGROUP 33 ANDAND 44 PREFERENCESPREFERENCES

11 GTA West WideningWidening AlternativesAlternatives

• Preferences: ¾Highway 9 has N-S links, however there could be salt runoff issues ¾Group 3-2 encompassed everything, but lacks N- S links ¾Don’t have enough information to make an informed decision/reach a conclusion

12 GTA West New Corridors

• Preferences: ¾ Group 4-4 is efficient, provides redundancy, and helps save on fuel ¾ Didn’t like any of them ¾ Group 4-3 is preferred because it avoids Toronto ¾ Group 4-5 would be built through less valuable farmland, traffic on the Hanlon might improve, but it would go right through Peel and would have devastating impacts for agriculture and community ¾ Suggest a new Group 4-6 alternative: widen all existing rail lines ¾ Revisit the standard right-of-way width and make it smaller

APPENDIX J MUNICIPAL ADVISORY GROUP MEETING #3 AND #4 PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY NOTES

GTA West

GTAGTA WESTWEST CORRIDORCORRIDOR PLANNINGPLANNING ANDAND EAEA STUDYSTUDY--STAGESTAGE 11

MunicipalMunicipal AdvisoryAdvisory GroupGroup MeetingMeeting

JUNE 24 2009 GTA West MeetingMeeting AgendaAgenda

1. Welcome and Introductions 2. GTA West Study Update 3. Evaluation Process and Criteria 4. Identifying Potential Transportation Strategies ¾ Optimize existing network ¾ New or expanded non-road infrastructure ¾ Widen roads ¾ New road infrastructure 5. What’s Next

2 GTA West MeetingMeeting PurposePurpose

1. Explain the proposed framework for generating and assessing transportation alternatives. 2. Inspire and challenge municipal team members to provide input on transportation alternatives.

3 GTA West StudyStudy PurposePurpose

• To proactively plan for future infrastructure needs by: ¾ Examining long-term transportation problems and opportunities to the year 2031 ¾ Considering options to provide better linkages between Urban Growth Centres in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area as identified in the Growth Plan, including: Downtown Guelph Downtown Milton Brampton City Centre Vaughan Corporate Centre

4 GTA West StudyStudy ProcessProcess

5 GTA West GrowthGrowth PlanPlan

6 GTA West GTAGTA WestWest StudyStudy AreaArea –– KeyKey FeaturesFeatures

7 OverallOverall StudyStudy ProcessProcess

GTA West

2007 2010

Transportation Terms of Transportation Problems & Alternatives Reference (GTAW) Development Strategy Opportunities

PIC 1 PIC 2 PIC 3 PIC 4

• Study Plan • Study Vision, Purpose, Goals, and • Overview of Transportation Objectives Discussion Paper and Socio-Economic • Transportation • Factors Influencing Transportation • Transportation Development Conditions Report Alternatives Demand Discussion Paper Strategy • Overview of Environmental • Transportation Problems and Report Report Conditions and Opportunities Report Constraints Report

We Are Here

8 GTA West GTAGTA WestWest -- RecentRecent EventsEvents

• RAAG & Advisory Group Meetings (February 2009) ¾ Goals and Objectives ¾ Existing Conditions ¾ Predicting Future Transportation Conditions ¾ Transportation Context, Problems & Opportunities Unique to GTA West are land development pressures ¾ Upcoming Consultation • PIC #2 (March 4, 5, 9, 11, & 12, 2009) • Think Tank Session for NGTA and GTA West Studies (June 8/9 2009) ¾ Examining issues and potential solutions for each transportation component (mode)

9 GTA West PICPIC #2#2 UpdateUpdate

Major Comments: Major Comments (continued): • Public Consultation • Alternatives ¾ Informative PIC displays and helpful staff ¾ Skepticism that MTO already knows where •Study Area the highway / corridor will be located ¾ General questions about the study area ¾ Inquiries regarding alternatives? boundaries ¾ Appreciation for multi-modal options • Corridor Protection/Areas of Interest Public transit and rail should be priority ¾ How were they determined and what do they ¾ Improve existing infrastructure mean? ¾ Develop bold/visionary transportation ¾ Inquiries regarding locations for the corridor. solutions ¾ Emphasis on goods movement by rail • Timeframe/Scope of Study ¾ General questions about the process for ¾ Study process is too long evaluating alternatives ¾ Study relationship to the past Highway 413 • Environmental Concerns ¾ Consider transportation solutions from other jurisdictions / internationally ¾ Protect agricultural lands/rural state, recreation areas, and the natural environment • Transportation Problems and ¾ Confusion regarding Greenbelt and Niagara Opportunities/Modeling Escarpment corridor restrictions ¾ Congestion is an issue for all, particularly truckers ¾ Outdated / inaccurate data concerns (e.g. • Total Attendance = 352 current economy) • Total Comment Sheets Received = 37

10 GTA West TransportationTransportation ProblemsProblems && OpportunitiesOpportunities UpdateUpdate

• Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Reports will be distributed for public & agency review in Summer 2009. • Contents include: ¾ Demand forecasting approach and assumptions; ¾ Consultation findings – TSP / BCS, other groups; ¾ Future demand forecasts; ¾ Overview of transportation problems; and ¾ Overview of opportunities for transportation improvements to support study objectives.

11 GTA West Process for Developing & AssessiAssessingng TransportaTransportationtion AlternaAlternativestives

Key Concepts: • The development and assessment of alternatives will be undertaken at an increasing level of detail. • Environmental considerations are being applied early in the study process based on secondary source information. • Base Case includes existing transportation conditions plus: ¾ MTO Planned Improvements; ¾ Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan: “The Big Move”, November 2008; ¾ GO Transit 2020 Service Plan; and ¾ Approved Municipal Official Plans and Transportation Master Plans. • The focus of this exercise is to identify a multi-modal transportation solution.

12 GTA West Three-stage Process for Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Combination Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Transportation Analysis Demand Air Management (TDM) • To what extent does the combination alternative Transportation meet the transportation Systems Rail objectives of this study? Management (TSM) • High level assessment of Environmental, Transit Intermodal Economic & Community factors.

Marine Roads & Focus of Highways Today’s Discussion 13 GTA West ThreeThree--StageStage ProcessProcess forfor AlternativesAlternatives

STAGE 2: Combination Alternatives Generic Examples

Optimize Existing Networks • ATMS • HOV Lanes in Existing RoW • Increased # or Frequency of Trains • Expanded Bus Service Area Combo 1 Develop and Assess Combo 2 Alternatives New/Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure • Expansion of Bus Terminals • Includes Combo 1 • New Rail Lines in Existing Corridors • Bus Only Lanes in New / ExistingPIC Combo ROW 2 # 3 Develop and Assess Combo 3 Alternatives Widen Roads • Widening 400 Series Highways • Includes Combos 1 & 2 • Widening of Various Inter-regional Municipal Roads Combo 3

Develop and Assess Combo 4 Alternatives

New Road Infrastructure • New Inter-regional King’s Highways • Includes Combos 1, 2 and • New 400 Series Highways elements of Combo 3 • Extensions of 400 Series Highways Combo 4 14 GTA West Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

Transportation • Planning Policies • Efficient movement of people • Efficient movement of goods • System reliability / redundancy •Safety • Modal integration, balance and choice for movement of people (commuters, recreation / tourist) • Modal integration, balance and choice for movement of goods • Linkages to Population and Employment Centres • Recreation and Tourism Travel • Constructability

15 GTA West Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

Community • Existing and Planned Future Land Use and Growth: ¾ Degree to which alternative supports land use plans • Community Features: ¾ Potential impacts to community features • Fragmentation of Agricultural Lands: ¾ Potential loss and fragmentation of agricultural lands • Cultural Features: ¾ Potential impacts to cultural features • First Nations: ¾ Potential impacts to lands of cultural or historical significance to First Nations

16 GTA West Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

Economy • Degree to which the combination alternative supports provincial, regional and municipal aspirations for: ¾ Manufacturing and trade ¾ Tourism and Recreation ¾ Economic and Agricultural Development ¾ Urban Growth Centre Connections

17 GTA West Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

Environment • Environmental Protection Policies: ¾ Support for federal, provincial and municipal environmental protection policies • Natural Features and Functions: ¾ Potential impacts to natural features and functions • Air Quality: ¾ Changes to transportation related GHG and toxic air emissions • Resource Consumption: ¾ Minimizes resource consumption

18 GTA West ConsultationConsultation ApproachApproach

• Stage 1 – Individual Alternatives ¾ Consultation with transportation service providers to determine the reasonableness of alternatives and potential limitations. ¾ Meetings with Advisory Groups (MAG, RAAG and CAG) to present and discuss the three-stage process for generating, assessing and selecting inter-regional transportation alternatives and input on the identification of transportation alternatives. • Stage 2 – Combination Alternatives ¾ Meetings with each of the advisory groups (MAG, RAAG and CAG). ¾ Public Information Centre #3 focused on the development of combination alternatives and the assessment of advantages and disadvantages. • Stage 3 – Preliminary Planning ¾ Meetings with each of the advisory groups (MAG, RAAG and CAG). ¾ Public Information Centre #4 focused on the generation and evaluation of Preliminary Planning alternatives and the identification of a draft Transportation Development Strategy.

19 GTA West

• Group 1: Optimize Existing Transportation Network ¾ Provide frequent, all-day GO Transit services on bus and rail ¾ Improve access to transit and provide adequate parking at terminals ¾ Develop targets aimed at reducing transit travel times below those of passenger cars ¾ Use highway shoulders as lanes during peak hours ¾ Use moveable barriers for more lanes in peak direction ¾ Vary posted speeds on congested highways – speed harmonization

20 GTA West

• Group 2: New/Improved Non-Roadway Infrastructure ¾ Standardize rail car containers / load carrying capabilities across jurisdictions ¾ Two-way, all-day GO Transit service on all GO lines ¾ High speed rail through and beyond corridor ¾ More inter-regional GO Bus routes ¾ Expand local airports into a goods transport logistics hub ¾ Rapid Transit along Hwy 401 in the median or elevated

21 GTA West

• Group 3: Widen Existing Roads

22 GTA West

• Group 4: New Road Infrastructure ¾ What are key connections? ¾ Key considerations and issues: ¾ What to avoid/opportunities to consider:

23 GTA West WhatWhat’’ss NextNext

• Next Steps: ¾ Community Advisory Group Meeting (late June 2009) ¾ Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report for Stakeholder Review (July 2009) ¾ Stakeholder thoughts on alternatives (end of July 2009) ¾ Develop and Assess Combination Alternatives (summer 2009) ¾ Final Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report (late summer 2009) ¾ Advisory Group Consultation (fall 2009) MAG (early September 2009) ¾ PIC #3 (fall 2009)

24 GTA West DiscussionDiscussion

Questions of clarification on the proposed 3-stage process?

Any additional comments on the criteria for assessing combination alternatives relative to your municipal interests?

25 GTA West

Thank you

26 GTA West

The following slides present the Problems and Opportunities presented at the Previous Meeting

27 GTA West PROBLEMS I NTER-REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Road Commuters / Trucks

• Traffic volumes to increase considerably resulting in traffic congestion which results in: ¾ Increased and unpredictable travel time for: Goods Movement throughout the day Commuter travel during peak periods Tourist / recreation travel throughout the day ¾ Increased variability and duration of travel time which is already affected by non-recurring incidents (collisions; inclement weather and construction) ¾ Unpredictable surface road transit travel times ¾ Diversion of inter-regional trucks to local roads

28 GTA West PROBLEMS I NTER-REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Transit Commuters

• Limited integration between local and inter- regional transit services reduces transits convenience and attractiveness • Passenger rail services conflicts with freight service or rail capacity • Road congestion limits efficient bus transit service

29 GTA West PROBLEMS I NTER-REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Tourist / Recreation

• Road congestion increases travel delays on weekends • High volumes of truck traffic on inter-regional roads conflict with tourism and recreational travel: ¾ Trucks and cars have to compete for limited road space. • Existing transportation system does not provide adequate road connections between Urban Growth Centres, tourist gateways, and major tourist destinations: ¾ Lack of multi-modal connections • Limited options in by-passing congestion areas: ¾ Lack of alternative routes • Public Transit schedules do not cater to tourists

30 GTA West PROBLEMS I NTER-REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Railways

• Limited rail connections between growth areas • Freight rail conflicts with passenger rail for rail capacity • Track capacity in some areas limit rail options for goods movement • Limited connectivity and capacity of inter-modal facilities pose constraints at trucking interface.

31 GTA West PROBLEMS I NTER-REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Air

• Limited runway capacity at Toronto Pearson International Airport will influence the future growth of goods movement by air.

• Limited multi-modal connections at Airports result in increased dependence on road network.

32 GTA West GTAW TRANSPORTATION PROBLEMS – Highway Network

Significant transportation system congestion in the Hwy 427 / Hwy 401 / Hwy 400 / Hwy 407 interchange complex area impacts the efficient movement of Commuters / Goods / Tourism travel and the efficiency of all modes servicing these markets within the GTAW Preliminary Study Area.

33 GTA West Example of HIGHWAY CONGESTION AREAS by 2031 – GTA West

By 2031 Hwy 401 in Halton will reach the capacity of10 lanes west of Milton and will reach the capacity of 12 lanes + HOV east of Milton

ATTACHMENT #1

Three-Stage Process for Generating, NNGGTTAA Analyzing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

1 Three-Stage Process for Generating, NNGGTTAA Analyzing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

GENERATE ASSESS EVALUATE AND SELECT

Generate Preliminary Assessment of Preliminary Evaluation and selection of the Planning Alternatives Planning Alternatives Preferred Preliminary Planning PIC Recommended Transportation for the preferred combination (based on criteria outlined in Alternative that will be incorporated in # 4 Development Strategy (for elements within MTO jurisdiction) Exhibit 7.2 of the Study Plan) the Transportation Development Strategy

Present Draft Transportation Development Strategy

STAGE 3: Preliminary Planning

2 Three-Stage Process for Generating, NNGGTTAA Analyzing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

Table 1 - Factors and Criteria for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2 FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS Transportation Planning Policies: Qualitative assessment with direct reference to key Potential to support federal / provincial / policies / goals. municipal transportation planning policies / goals / objectives. Efficient movement of people: Peak period transportation system performance: Potential to support the efficient movement • % of inter-regional system operating at or of people between communities and better than LOS D regions based on network, screenline and • Performance/LOS of key inter-regional critical link performance and availability of corridors (QEW, 406, 403, 401, 427, 407, 400, higher order, inter-regional transportation inter-regional transit) corridors. Availability/provision of higher order, inter-regional transportation corridors for person trips.

Reduction in use of local/regional roadways for inter-regional trips. Efficient movement of goods: Peak period transportation system performance: • % of inter-regional system operating at or Potential to support efficient movement of better than LOS D goods between urban growth centres and • v/c ratio of key truck corridors (road and rail) regional intermodal facilities and Availability/provision of higher order, inter-regional communities based on road network transportation corridors for goods movement. performance measures and availability of higher order, inter-regional transportation Provision of inter-modal facilities and linkages corridors. between shipping modes / terminals.

Reduction in use of local / regional roadways for inter-regional trips.

System reliability / redundancy: Availability of alternate routes/facilities for inter- Potential to support system reliability and regional transportation between regions, redundancy for travel (people and goods) communities and terminals. between regions and communities during congested/adverse conditions. Safety: Potential to improve response times for emergency Potential to improve traffic safety based on service providers due to reduced congestion on the opportunity to reduce congestion on area inter-regional road network (average speed/ v/c road network. ratio) Potential to reduce collisions due to improved network LOS and decreased conflicts between travel modes. Modal integration, balance and choice Provision of higher order inter-regional transit for movement of people (commuters, services. recreation / tourist): Potential to improve modal integration, Provision of linkages between inter-regional and

Three-Stage Process for Generating, NNGGTTAA Analyzing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS balance and choice for person trips regional/community transit systems. between communities, employment centres and major transit hubs. Bus operational performance on inter-regional road network (LOS) Potential to increase the attractiveness/effectiveness of transit Availability/provision of alternate travel modes for options to for all trips. tourism/recreational travel.

Provision of/ allowance for active transportation measures (e.g., bike lanes, bike racks on buses/trains). Modal integration, balance and choice Availability/provision of modal alternatives for for movement of goods: goods movement. Potential to improve modal integration, balance and choice for goods movement between ports and terminals, communities and employment centres.

Linkages to Population and Availability/provision of higher order linkages Employment Centres: between urban growth centres. Potential to improve accessibility to urban growth centres for people and goods Average travel times between urban centres. movement based on higher order network continuity and connectivity. Recreation and Tourism Travel: Directness of routes between population centres, Potential to support recreation and tourism international gateways and tourist/recreation travel within and to/from the Preliminary destinations Study Area. Peak period (summer/weekend) transportation system performance: • % of inter-regional system operating at or better than LOS D. • Performance/LOS of key inter-regional corridors (QEW, 406, 403, 401, 427, 400, 407, inter-regional transit). Diversion of summer recreational trips from local and regional roadways. Constructability: Relative costs. Potential ease of implementation Relative property impacts. considering feasibility/difficulty of physical, Potential for requirements for significant property or environmental constraints and environmental mitigation. relative cost (where possible to approximate). Community Existing and planned future land use Qualitative assessment of how the combination and growth: alternative supports existing and planned land use The degree to which the combination including: alternative supports or is consistent with • Provincial Policy Statement re agriculture, etc. existing and planned future land use and • Provincial Growth Plan – re land use growth including recognition of growth intensification management plans and policies as

Three-Stage Process for Generating, NNGGTTAA Analyzing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS articulated in provincial policies, federal • Municipal official plans – re residential and policies and municipal official plans. commercial growth directions • NEC plan – re protection of natural and rural land uses • Greenbelt Plan – re protection of agricultural and rural land uses • Upper Tier Municipal Official Plans Community features: Qualitative assessment of potential positive and Potential impacts to community features negative (displacement / disruption) impacts on: (e.g. land use, communities, resources). • Land use • Existing and planned communities • Resource extraction areas

Fragmentation of agricultural lands: Qualitative assessment of potential fragmentation Potential loss and fragmentation of of agricultural lands and estimated area / agricultural lands. description of loss of agricultural lands.

Cultural Features: Qualitative assessment of impacts to properties of Potential impacts cultural features (e.g. cultural heritage value and archaeological potential. properties of cultural heritage and archaeological significance). First Nations: Qualitative description of impacts to First Nation Potential impacts to lands of cultural or sites. historical significance to First Nations. Economy Manufacturing and trade: Qualitative description of how the combination The degree to which the combination alternative supports manufacturing and trade? alternative supports provincial, regional and municipal manufacturing and trade.

Tourism and recreation: Qualitative description of how the combination The degree to which the combination alternatives support tourism and recreation from alternative supports provincial, regional economic perspective. and municipal tourism and recreation.

Economic and agricultural Qualitative description of how the combination development: alternatives support or impact agricultural The degree to which the combination operations and plans for future development. alternative supports provincial, regional and municipal economic and agricultural development, including areas designated for future / long-term agricultural land uses. Urban Growth Centre Connections: Qualitative assessment of how the combination The degree to which the combination alternative aligns with provincial policies for Urban alternative provides connections to Urban Growth Centers and Gateway Economic Zones. Growth Centres and Gateway Economic Zones identified in provincial policy.

Three-Stage Process for Generating, NNGGTTAA Analyzing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS Environment Environmental Protection Policies: Qualitative assessment of how the combination The degree to which the proposed alternative aligns with federal, provincial and transportation system modification municipal environmental protection policies. supports or is consistent with federal, provincial and municipal environmental protection policies. Natural Features and Functions: Qualitative analysis of: Potential impacts to natural features and • Potential impacts to major aquatic functions (e.g. aquatic ecosystems, ecosystems (number or description of terrestrial ecosystems, ground water, potentially impacted watercourses) surface water). • Potential impacts to major terrestrial ecosystems (area or description of terrestrial habitat potentially affected) • Potential impacts to sensitive groundwater features (qualitative description) • Potential impacts to areas that are sensitive to changes in surface water (qualitative description) • Description of potential to avoid or minimize impacts to environmental features. Air Quality: Qualitative assessment (using quantitative inputs) The degree to which the combination of: alternative results in changes to • Potential changes in greenhouse gas transportation related GHG and toxic air emissions and criteria air contaminants emissions. (CACs); and • Potential changes in air quality on a regional level.

Resource Consumption: Qualitative assessment of the combination The degree to which the combination alternatives ability to minimize resource alternative minimizes resource consumption and description of potential mineral consumption (i.e. mineral, aggregate). and aggregate resource issues.

ATTACHMENT #2

GTA West

StageStage 22 –– CombinationCombination AlternativesAlternatives GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks

• Optimize TDM – get more people into each vehicle • Improve inter-linkages between modal networks in between communities in the GTA West study area - don’t centre everything on TO • Increase number of freight trains to improve movement of goods and reduce truck traffic • Make modal share targets more aggressive - review morning mode share targets for Provincial facilities

2 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks

• Use highway shoulders as lanes – is used in Netherlands – during congestion, including in construction zones and during accidents • Get trucks off road by establishing new freight rail in the Highway 401 corridor (or Combo 2) • Introduce heavy vehicle lanes for trucks and/or buses on highways

3 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks • Use contra-flows – for peak/off peak hours (i.e., reverse direction) • Limit hours for truck traffic to outside peak period • Using ITS for drivers to make better decisions • Improve response time for EMS and open the road sooner after an accident • Improve ATMS to catch up with incident being cleared sooner • Introduce congestion pricing on Hwy 401

4 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Networks

• Increase the speed limit to 105 or 110 km/h to improve highway capacity • Improve alternate routes for when incidents do occur • Increase investment in/standards for winter maintenance and change criteria for snow clearance • Improve/introduce ATMS on non-400 series Highways – so drivers can change routes earlier

5 GTA West Combo 1: Ideas for Optimizing Existing Network • Introduce “real time” traffic warnings – like they have in USA on GPS • Maximize use of Hwy 407 as a transportation facility • Transit line in Hwy 407 – build it sooner and in other areas (beyond what is planned in short term) • Increase speed in rail corridor • Improve parking for GO facilities • More “express” GO service

6 GTA West Combo 2: Ideas for New/Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure

•Introduce transit terminal for Pearson Airport •Have transit stations/stops at highway interchanges and have local transit connect to those stations, with transit lines along highway corridors - make the modal switch (from car to transit) easier •Introduce rapid transit on Highway 401 in median •Provide improved/separate bike paths •Introduce “GO Train” system for goods movement – have the train run along Hwy 401 and smaller trucks connect to that train line for local deliveries •Have transportation hubs for all modes – integrated with land use

7 GTA West Combo 2: Ideas for New/Expanded Non-Road Infrastructure

• Encourage municipalities to have truck routes and coordinate design standards – so fewer trucks use Hwy 401 • Examine the rail corridor as a resource – improve rail traffic control mechanisms to maximize the use of the corridor (allowing more trains, at different speeds to share the same corridor) • Expand rail services • CP express for freight – how can it be used to reduce truck traffic on Hwy 401? – what are the barriers?

8 GTA West Combo 3: Ideas for Widening Roads

• Comments/challenges: • Region of Peel has policy of not widening roads beyond 6 lanes • Don’t put interregional traffic on municipal roads • We should be more clear on the rationale for widening roads (eg. Hwy 401) from economic perspective – what is the economic value/benefit we get from widening? • Would have to consider a bypass of Erin if widening Road 124 9 GTA West Combo 3: Ideas for Widening Roads

• Puslinch – widening won’t be effective because the local roads are in low tier jurisdictions – they are most interested in where they would tie in • Highway 6 in Puslinch is main route • Highway 7 in Georgetown, Rockwood, Norval and Acton – these communities would need bypasses • No. 5 Side Road connects well to Hwy 401 – is used often as detour during emergencies

10 GTA West Combo 3: Ideas for Widening Roads

• Highway 10 could be considered for widening above and beyond what Region proposes • Town of Vaughan and Region of York do not think Reg Rd 27 is a reasonable alternative • Milton – is where congestion always starts – but it’s constrained on Hwy 401 by escarpment • Milton wants growth on east and west (as per recent input to Sustainable Halton) – transit alts will be easier to implement in Milton

11 GTA West Combo 3: Ideas for Widening Roads

• Municipal staff would benefit from a re-cap of the demand analysis and problems and opportunities • There is a shift in public thinking about moving “people” – not just “traffic” • Do not consider widening any roads in York Region that are above and beyond what’s in their Master Plan – because it is not reasonable • Use caution when considering widenings above and beyond what is already planned by municipalities

12 GTA West Combo 4: Ideas for New Road Infrastructure • Key connections: • To NGTA if it identifies a need for a new corridor • North-south connection at Halton/Peel boundary (to tie into municipal EA’s recommendation) • To Highway 400, Hwy 401 and Niagara area • To Hwy 427 in Vaughan • Highway 410 and Hwy 427 extensions/ connections to GTA West corridor are critical • Brantford-Cambridge Transportation EA

13 GTA West Combo 4: Ideas for New Road Infrastructure

• Key constraints: • Between Hwy 427 and Hwy 400 is very constrained, Humber Valley, Kleinberg etc. in Vaughan – (Q) would we consider stopping at Hwy 427? • Niagara Escarpment • Lack of Provincial Highway Master Plan

14 GTA West Combo 4: Ideas for New Road Infrastructure

• Key opportunities: • Provide better highway access to new employment lands • Improve goods movement

15 GTA West

GTAGTA WESTWEST CORRIDORCORRIDOR PLANNINGPLANNING ANDAND EAEA STUDYSTUDY--STAGESTAGE 11

MunicipalMunicipal AdvisoryAdvisory GroupGroup MeetingMeeting

NOVEMBER 3, 2009 GTA West MeetingMeeting AgendaAgenda

1. Welcome and Introductions 2. GTA West Study Update 3. Background 4. Transportation Alternatives and Process Framework 5. Individual Mode Alternatives 6. Alternative Groups 7. Next Steps

2 GTA West GTAGTA WestWest –– RecentRecent andand UpcomingUpcoming EventsEvents

• PIC #2 (March 2009) • Workshops to generate transportation alternatives for NGTA and GTA West Studies (June 2009) ¾ Considered issues and potential solutions for each transportation component (mode) • RAAG, MAG, CAG meetings (June / July 2009) ¾ Reviewed process to generate and evaluate potential transportation alternative(s) ¾ Transportation strategy ideas • RAAG, MAG, CAG meetings (November 2009) • Public Information Centre #3 ¾ November 30th – Guelph PIC, River Run Centre ¾ December 3rd – Georgetown PIC, Mold Master Sportsplex ¾ December 8th – Caledon PIC, Brampton Fairgrounds ¾ December 10th – Woodbridge PIC, Le Jardin Conference & Events Centre

3 GTA West StudyStudy PurposePurpose

4 GTA West StudyStudy ProcessProcess

5 GTA West GrowthGrowth PlanPlan

6 GTA West GTAGTA WestWest StudyStudy AreaArea –– KeyKey FeaturesFeatures

7 GTA West OverallOverall StudyStudy ProcessProcess

2007 We are Here 2010

Transportation Terms of Transportation Problems & Alternatives Reference Development Strategy Opportunities

PIC 1 PIC 2 PIC 3 PIC 4

• Overview of Transportation • Study Vision, Purpose, Goals, and and Socio-Economic • Transportation Objectives Discussion Paper • Transportation Development Conditions Report Alternatives • Factors Influencing Transportation Strategy • Overview of Environmental Demand Discussion Paper Report Report Conditions and • Transportation Problems and Constraints Report Opportunities Report

8 GTA West TransportationTransportation ProblemsProblems && OpportunitiesOpportunities UpdateUpdate

• Future Transportation Problems categorized by: ¾ Commuters ¾ Tourism and Recreation ¾ Goods Movement

• Future Transportation Opportunities ¾ Compact, vibrant and complete communities ¾ A prosperous and competitive economy ¾ A protected environment

• Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report distributed for public & agency review in Summer 2009.

9 GTA West Process for Developing & AssessiAssessingng TransportaTransportationtion AlternaAlternativestives

Key Concepts: • The development and assessment of alternatives will be undertaken at an increasing level of detail. • Environmental considerations are being applied early in the study process based on secondary source information. • All alternatives include existing transportation conditions plus: ¾ MTO Planned Improvements; ¾ Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan: “The Big Move”, November 2008; ¾ GO Transit 2020 Service Plan; and ¾ Approved Municipal Official Plans and Transportation Master Plans. • The focus is to identify a multi-modal transportation solution.

10 GTA West Process for Developing & AssessiAssessingng TransportaTransportationtion AlternaAlternativestives

11 GTA West Three-stage Process for Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Group of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Modal Improvement Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Transportation Analysis Demand Air Management (TDM) • To what extent does the Group of Modal Transportation Improvement Systems Rail Alternatives meet the Management transportation (TSM) objectives of this study?

Transit Intermodal • High level assessment of Environmental, Economic & Community factors. Marine Roads & Highways

12 GTA West Consultation

The Creative Process The Project Team has conducted extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders to receive ideas on possible alternatives. This has included:

• Comments from Public Information Centres #1 & #2 – • Ontario Growth Secretariat – September 28, 2009 April/May 2007 and March 2009 • Halton Transportation Advisory Committee – October • Municipal Workshops (Halton, Peel, York, Guelph- 13, 2009 Wellington) – February / March 2009 • Metrolinx and GO Transit Meeting – October 14, 2009 • Transportation Service Providers – Spring 2009 • Mississaugas of the New Credit Meeting – October 28, • Halton Hills Council Workshop – April 24, 2009 2009 • Conservation Authorities Workshops (CH, TRCA, CVC, • MAG, RAAG, CAG Meetings – November 2009 GRCA, NEC) – May 2009 • Halton Region Planning and Public Works Committee – • Workshops to generate transportation alternatives for November 12, 2009 NGTA and GTA West Studies – June 8/9, 2009 • Caledon Council Meeting – November 17, 2009 • Joint GTA West and NGTA RAAG Meeting – June 19, • Guelph-Wellington County Council Meeting – November 2009 23, 2009 • MAG Meeting #4 – June 24, 2009 • York Region Planning & Economic Development • CAG Meeting #4 – July 14, 2009 Committee – December 2, 2009 • GTA West and NGTA Agency Workshop – September • Peel Region General Committee – December 3, 2009 25, 2009

13 GTA West StudyStudy UpdateUpdate

• Analysis of individual modal alternatives • Developing groups of alternatives • Consultation activities • Considered policy changes that may be required

14 GTA West AlternativesAlternatives RequiringRequiring PolicyPolicy ChangesChanges

Combination 1 Combination 2 A. Parking management where A. Develop Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) transit services are provided and multi-purpose lanes along B. Continued investigation of Longer rail corridors Combination Commercial Vehicles B. Formal distribution network of C. Off-peak / restricted lane use for shipments to / from Montreal trucks D. Improved integration of private bus operations with GO Rail stations Combination 4 E. Optimize use of Highway 407 A. Separate trucks from other F. Congestion pricing vehicles when implementing G. Continued investigation of buses new infrastructure on shoulders during peak periods

15 GTA West ThreeThree--StageStage ProcessProcess forfor AlternativesAlternatives

Stage 1: Individual Alternatives

Develop Group of Modal Improvement Alternatives

16 GTA West Individual Mode Alternatives

• Each of the Individual Area Transportation System Alternatives was examined based on their potential to address the identified transportation problems and opportunities and contribute to a multi-modal transportation solution. ¾Rail (Freight Rail) ¾Transit ¾TDM / TSM No single transportation mode is ¾Intermodal No single transportation mode is capable of fully addressing the ¾Air capable of fully addressing the transportation problems and ¾Marine transportation problems and opportunities. opportunities.

17 GTA West Individual Mode Alternatives

TDM/TSM Transit

• Roadway and TSM / TDM expansion including • Local transit (expand AcceleRide, rapid transit on freeways and major arterial Variable Message Signs to notify motorists of roads), freeway conditions • BRT (links between Urban Growth Centres) • Lane Control Signs (i.e., speed harmonization) • Rail Expansion including GO service (new service between Urban Growth • Ramp Metering Systems Centres, service extension between Milton/Cambridge, Guelph/Waterloo) • Incident Management, employee sponsored and • Regional rail service (i.e. new service from Bolton to Union Station and provincial TDM programs expansion along Georgetown corridor) • Improved Transit/Rail Services including increased • Inter-regional Transit Hubs: Locations where transit and GO connect - expand service frequency, fare integration, bus lanes on bike and car parking lots shoulders during peak periods, improved access to stations and incorporation of active transportation. Intermodal • Introduce Planning Policies to Promote Nodal (mixed use) Developments; • Provide Choice and Opportunity to Benefit from Strengths of Each Mode; • Understand Requirements and Match with Logistics and Economic Realities; Freight Rail • Logistics Hubs near Airports/ Ports/ Rail Yards/Industrial Parks;

• Grade separate road and rail (i.e. identify bottleneck Air location • Logistics Hubs near Airports/ Ports/ Rail Yards/Industrial Parks; • National policy targets for modal shift onto rail • Improvements to “Free Trade Zone” Systems; • Changes to rail grade separation regulations • Improve Integration of Rail and Air Transportation Modes; • Standardize carrying requirements across • High Speed Rail link between Union Station-Toronto Pearson- jurisdictions Kitchener/Waterloo; • Improve integration of rail and air transportation • Sixth Runway at Toronto Pearson. modes • Utilize short haul routes • Various CN and CP Initiatives Marine • Logistics Hubs near Airports/ Ports/ Rail Yards/Industrial Parks; • Changes to Ballast Water Regulations; • Formal Distribution Network to/from Montreal; 18 GTA West Three-stage Process for Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Group of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Modal Improvement Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Transit Intermodal • High level assessment of Environmental, Economic & Community factors. Marine Roads & Highways

19 GTA West GroupGroup 1:1: OptimizeOptimize ExistingExisting NetworkNetwork

Examples include: • Speed harmonization • TDM programs • Ramp metering systems • Transit / HOV bypass locations • Incident management and detection •

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 20 GTA West GroupGroup 1:1: OptimizeOptimize ExistingExisting NetworkNetwork

Summary of the Assessment

• Community ¾ Supports the PPS policy for optimizing use of existing infrastructure ¾ Minimizes impacts to NEC and Greenbelt lands ¾ Minimizes impacts to community features ¾ Low potential to impact agricultural lands ¾ Low potential to impact built heritage or archaeological resources ¾ Does not sufficiently support planned future land use or growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Limited ability to provide improved transit connections between Urban Growth Centres (i.e., Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) ¾ Does not support “employment lands” or “moving goods” sections of the Growth Plan ¾ Does not provide increased goods movement linkages among intermodal facilities or communities in the GGH • Economy ¾ No impacts to agricultural operations ¾ Does not support economic factors associated with industry and trade, tourism or agriculture ¾ Limited ability to support increased trade through lack of improvement to movement of goods ¾ Limited ability to support existing or future industry ¾ Limited ability to service provincial/regional or municipal tourism or improve service for traffic going to areas beyond GTA ¾ Limited ability to improve connections between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Does not address nature of goods movement around GTA, which is heavily oriented to “Just in Time” and short- haul delivery • Environment ¾ Supports environmental protection policies (PPS, NEC, Greenbelt etc.) ¾ Minimizes footprint impacts at natural features or to natural functions Outcome of Group 1 High ¾ Minimizes impacts to air quality ¾ Minimizes resource consumption Level Assessment results • Transportation ¾ Fails to address transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area in Group 1 improvements ¾ Limited improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement ¾ Limited improvement to transportation system operations, reliability, redundancy and safety being carried forward ¾ Minor potential to improve modal integration for people and goods movement ¾ Limited potential to improve modal integration for goods movement ¾ Limited improvement to accessibility of Urban Growth Centres into Group 2 ¾ Limited potential to support recreation and tourism travel ¾ Optimized use of existing infrastructure ¾ No significant constructability issues; minor delays on inter-regional road network beyond MTO programmed works 21 GTA West Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 22 GTA West Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure

Examples include: • Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes • Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph) • New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres (Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph)

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 23 GTA West Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure Summary of the Assessment • Community ¾ Supports the PPS policy for optimizing use of existing infrastructure ¾ Relatively minor impacts to NEC and Greenbelt lands ¾ Can result in positive land use impacts as transit hubs tend to attract more accessible development patterns ¾ Overall increase in transportation options may benefit those who are physically, economically and socially disadvantaged ¾ Potential for improved walking and cycling connections ¾ Some potential to provide improved connections between Urban Growth Centres (i.e., Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) ¾ Low potential to impact agricultural lands ¾ Low potential to impact archaeological resources and cultural landscapes ¾ Limited ability to support planned future land use or growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Does not support “employment lands” or “moving goods” sections of the Growth Plan ¾ Does not provide increased goods movement linkages among intermodal facilities and communities in the GGH ¾ Some potential to impact community features and resources in built-up areas where corridors are widened to accommodate transit or rail, or at transit hubs • Economy ¾ Some potential to improve service to existing and future industry and to improve trade over longer distances ¾ Potential improvement for existing tourism operations ¾ Relatively minor impacts to agricultural operations ¾ Improves connections between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Does not address nature of goods movement, which is heavily oriented to “Just in Time” and short-haul delivery Outcome of Group 2 High ¾ Limited ability to service provincial/regional tourism • Environment Level Assessment results ¾ Supports environmental protection policies ¾ Potentially minimizes resource consumption ¾ Minimizes footprint impacts at natural features or to natural functions where in Group 2 improvements widening or new alignment is required ¾ Potential for minor impacts to air quality through built-up areas being carried forward • Transportation ¾ Fails to address transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area into Group 3 ¾ Limited improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement ¾ Limited improvement to transportation system operations, reliability, redundancy and safety ¾ Major potential to improve modal integration for people movement ¾ Limited potential to improve modal integration for goods movement ¾ Significant improvement to transit linkages between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Moderate potential to improvement to recreation and tourism travel, with new and improved transit services ¾ Minor constructability issues; minor delays on inter-regional road network beyond MTO programmed works 24 GTA West ThreeThree--StageStage ProcessProcess forfor AlternativesAlternatives

Stage 2: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives

25 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

• Group 3 alternatives include elements from Groups 1 and 2 ¾ Metrolinx RTP ¾ GO 2020 strategies ¾ TDM programs ¾ New bus rapid transit links between urban growth centres

• Widened provincial freeways (Highway 401, 410, 427, 400) and 407ETR

• Widened regional/county roads with bypasses around built-up areas (e.g. Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, Erin)

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 26 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads Alternative 3-1

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 27 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads Alternative 3-2

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 28 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads Alternative 3-3

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 29 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

Summary of the Assessment • Community ¾ Supports the PPS policy for optimizing the use of existing infrastructure ¾ Relatively minor impacts to NEC lands and Greenbelt ¾ Low potential to impact agricultural operations and results in less loss of agricultural lands because most impacts are on the fringe ¾ Low potential to impact archaeological resources because most areas have been previously disturbed ¾ Group 3-1 has minimal impact on community features, because it uses Provincial highways ¾ Groups 3-2 and 3-3 provide improved access to future employment areas in Brampton and Caledon ¾ Limited ability to support planned future land use or growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Limited ability to provide improved connections between some Urban Growth Centres ¾ Group 3-2 has potential for significant direct (i.e., displacement and access) impacts to land uses and community features in places such as Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, Erin, Caledon, etc., although bypasses may reduce impacts ¾ Group 3-2 has potential for significant direct impacts (i.e., displacement/loss) to built heritage features along existing roads and in communities named above, although bypasses may reduce impacts ¾ Groups 3-2 & 3-3 include major municipal widenings that may not be consistent with municipal plans, policies, transportation master plans and/or Official Plans • Economy ¾ Some ability to service future industry along existing travel corridors ¾ Additional capacity reduces congestion and facilitates goods movement and trade ¾ Provides improved access to tourism /recreation operations along existing travel corridors ¾ Additional capacity reduces congestion and facilitates improved travel for tourism and recreational purposes ¾ Groups 3-2 and 3-3 may improve tourism opportunities for new and existing attractions in northern sections of study area ¾ Relatively minor impacts to agricultural operations ¾ Group 3-2 - a new bypass (around Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, Erin, Caledon and/or Mono Mills) could potentially open up lands for new business or light industrial expansion ¾ Limited ability to improve connections between Urban Growth Centres (i.e., Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) ¾ Potential bypasses around Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown Erin, Caledon and Mono Mills may reduce exposure for businesses in existing built-up areas ¾ Groups 3-2 and 3-3 could impact agricultural operations through property access, “fringe” impacts and indirect proximity impacts

30 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

Summary of Assessment (contd.) • Environment ¾ Supports PPS Policy for the protection of Natural Heritage, Agricultural and Cultural Heritage/Archaeological resources ¾ Minimizes fragmentation of environmental protection policy areas (i.e., NEC, Greenbelt and ORM) ¾ Potential for less resource consumption or mineral and aggregate resource related issues ¾ Increased emissions along existing major travel corridors in built-up areas, where sensitive receptors are located. Proximity to receptors increases exposure ¾ Impacts many environmental features. Although footprint widening may be considered less severe than fragmentation of natural areas, frequency of crossings and ability to mitigate through design may be restricted because of property constraints and design limitations imposed by existing infrastructure. • Transportation ¾ Address people and goods movement transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area ¾ Major improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement, with improved inter-regional transportation system operations ¾ Major improvement to transportation system operations and safety ¾ Moderate improvement to transportation system reliability and redundancy ¾ Moderate potential to improve modal integration for people and goods movement Outcome of Group 3 High ¾ Major potential to improve linkages and accessibility between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Major improvement to recreation and tourism travel and directness of routes to Level Assessment results tourist/ recreation destinations in the GTA and northern Ontario ¾ Significant constructability and staging issues in Group 1, 2 & 3 ¾ No new inter-regional transportation corridors improvements being ¾ Alternatives 3-1 and 3-3 provide limited roadway redundancy improvements ¾ Alternatives 3-1 and 3-3 provide limited roadway improvements to Guelph carried forward into Group 4 and in improvement alternatives being carried forward for further consideration 31 GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor

• Group 4 alternatives include Groups 1, 2 and elements of 3 ¾ Metrolinx RTP ¾ GO 2020 strategies ¾ TDM programs ¾ New bus rapid transit link between urban growth centres

• New corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 410, with possible connections to Highway 401 east or west of Milton • New corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 6 (north or south of Guelph)

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 32 GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-1

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end point and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 33 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-2

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end point and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 34 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-3

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end point and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 35 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-4

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end point and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 36 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-5

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end point and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 37 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West Group 4: Includes New Transportation Corridor

Summary of Assessment • Community ¾ Support planned future land use and growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Improve connections between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Address development pressures in Peel and York Regions ¾ Less impacts on community features, land uses and built-up areas ¾ Less impacts on built heritage features in communities throughout study area ¾ Cross varying portions of NEC and Greenbelt designated areas. Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 cross the largest sections of NEC and Greenbelt lands ¾ Potential to change or affect the “rural” character of some communities ¾ Potential increased nuisance impacts (i.e., noise, illumination etc.) in areas closest to new facility ¾ Potential fragmentation of agricultural operations and loss of Class 1 lands ¾ New crossing of Humber River has potential to impact Canadian Heritage River and trails (including Toronto Carrying Place Trail) – although impacts can be minimized through design and span of new structures ¾ Potential impacts to archaeological resources in previously undisturbed areas ¾ Potential to impact cultural features near Norval (Alternatives 4-2 and 4-3), Ballinafad and Cheltenham (Alternative 4-4) and Speyside, Scotch Block and Brookville (Alternative 4-5) ¾ Alternatives 4-1 and 4-2 have limited ability to serve Milton/Halton Hills growth areas • Economy ¾ New corridors provide economic opportunities for industry and improved trade ¾ Provide improved access to CP inter-modal terminal in Vaughan and CN inter-modal terminal in Brampton ¾ Connect major existing and emerging nodes that are the focus of the logistics/wholesale trade sectors for growth in Halton and provide improved access to these areas for the labour force. ¾ Alternative 4-4 provides significantly improved access to eco-recreational areas many of which are located along the Niagara Escarpment ¾ Alternative 4-5 would enhance the area’s economic competitiveness by improving access to existing and planned industrial areas and inter-modal facilities, taking pressure off municipal roads, reducing the cost of congestion, and enhancing transportation system efficiency and reliability/redundancy for growth centres throughout the study area, from Vaughan to Guelph and on to Kitchener-Waterloo ¾ Provide service to existing and future industry ¾ Support improved connections for intra-provincial and international tourism, including to/from Lester B. Pearson International Airport ¾ Improve connections between Urban Growth Centres through network redundancy ¾ Potential impacts on linked agricultural operations although route selection process and mitigation could reduce impacts 38 GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor

Summary of Assessment (contd.) • Environment ¾ Potential for significant impacts to previously undisturbed Greenbelts lands ¾ New corridors offer some opportunities to increase separation distance between built-up areas and transportation corridor ¾ New corridors offer some opportunities to minimize impacts at environmentally sensitive features through route selection phases and design of new crossings, structures, etc. ¾ Potential to impact, result in loss of and fragment lands designated by Greenbelt and NEC Plans ¾ Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 have the most potential to impact, result in loss of and fragment lands designated by Greenbelt and NEC Plans ¾ Potential to impact many significant ESAs, ANSIs, wetlands, groundwater recharge areas etc. especially those west of Georgetown, although some features can be avoided through route selection process and design of crossings ¾ New corridor alternatives have most potential to impact surface water conditions ¾ Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 have potential for major resource consumption, based on their length ¾ Alternative 4-5 impacts Halton shale • Transportation ¾ Address people and goods movement transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area ¾ Major improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement, with improved inter-regional transportation system operations ¾ Major improvement to transportation system operations and safety ¾ Major improvement to transportation system reliability and redundancy with new transportation corridor ¾ Major potential to improve modal integration for people and goods movement ¾ Major potential to improve linkages and accessibility between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Major improvement to recreation and tourism travel and directness of routes to tourist/ recreation destinations in the GTA and northern Ontario ¾ Allows for higher order transit on new higher order roadway ¾ Significant constructability and staging issues Outcome of Group 4 High ¾ Alternatives 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 provide limited roadway redundancy improvements in the western portion of the study area ¾ Alternatives 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 provide limited roadway improvements to Guelph Level Assessment results in improvement alternatives being carried forward for further consideration

39 GTA West WhatWhat’’ss NextNext

• Following PIC #3 an evaluation will be completed using a range of factors and criteria to determine which alternative(s) should be carried forward into Preliminary Planning. • During preliminary planning the alternative(s) carried forward will be considered in the following process

EVALUATE GENERATE ASSESS EVALUATE AND SELECT

Generate Evaluation and Preliminary Assessment selection of the Planning of Preferred Preliminary Recommended Evaluation Alternatives for Preliminary Transportation PIC #3 Planning Alternative PIC #4 of the Preferred Planning that will be Development Alternatives Combination Alternatives incorporated in the Strategy (for elements Transportation within MTO Development jurisdiction) Strategy

Present Draft Transportation Development Strategy

APPENDIX K REGULATORY AGENCY ADVISORY GROUP MEETING #3 AND #4 PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY NOTES

RAAGRAAG ~ Niagara to GTA Corridor & GTA West Corridor Planning and EA Studies – Phase 1 ~

Regulatory Agency Advisory Group

June 19, 2009

NGTA -1- AgendaAgenda andand PurposePurpose

Opening Remarks NGTA and GTA West Study Updates Transportation Problems & Opportunities Reports Process Framework for Developing & Assessing Transportation Alternatives Three-stage evaluation process Proposed criteria for assessing combination alternatives Next Steps & Open Forum Closing Remarks Meeting Purpose: Provide a status update on the NGTA and GTA West studies and present the proposed framework for generating and assessing transportation alternatives, including the criteria proposed to guide this assessment

NGTA -2- StudyStudy ProcessProcess

NGTA -3- GrowthGrowth PlanPlan

NGTA -4- PopulationPopulation GrowthGrowth

BARRIE O RA N G EV IL VAUGHAN B LE RA M PT G O U N EL TORONTO PH WATERLOO MILTON KITCHENER BURLINGTON CAMBRIDGE ST. CATHARINES

SARNIA W B H R A O A MI O N T L NIAGARA FALLS D F T ST O O LONDON O R N C D K

WINDSOR

1961 ONTARIO 6,236,000

Source: Census Data

NGTA -5- PopulationPopulation GrowthGrowth

BARRIE O RA N G EV IL VAUGHAN B LE RA M PT G O U N EL TORONTO PH WATERLOO MILTON KITCHENER BURLINGTON CAMBRIDGE ST. CATHARINES

SARNIA W B H R A O A MI O N T L NIAGARA FALLS D F T ST O O LONDON O R N C D K

WINDSOR

1991 ONTARIO 10,085,000

Source: Census Data

NGTA -6- PopulationPopulation GrowthGrowth

BARRIE O RA N G EV IL VAUGHAN B LE RA M PT G O U N EL TORONTO PH WATERLOO MILTON KITCHENER BURLINGTON CAMBRIDGE ST. CATHARINES

SARNIA W B H R A O A MI O N T L NIAGARA FALLS D F T ST O O LONDON O R N C D K

WINDSOR

2001 ONTARIO 11,141,000

Source: Census Data

NGTA -7- PopulationPopulation GrowthGrowth

BARRIE O RA N G EV IL VAUGHAN B LE RA M PT G O U N EL TORONTO PH WATERLOO MILTON KITCHENER BURLINGTON CAMBRIDGE ST. CATHARINES

SARNIA W B H R A O A MI O N T L NIAGARA FALLS D F T ST O O LONDON O R N C D K

WINDSOR

2031 ONTARIO 16,400,000

NGTA -8- NGTANGTA StudyStudy AreaArea

NGTA -9- NGTANGTA StudyStudy AreaArea -- KeyKey FeaturesFeatures

NGTA -10- GTAGTA WestWest StudyStudy AreaArea

NGTA -11- GTAGTA WestWest StudyStudy AreaArea –– KeyKey FeaturesFeatures

NGTA -12- OverallOverall StudyStudy ProcessProcess

2007 2010

Study Plan (NGTA) Transportation Problems Transportation Alternatives Terms of Reference (GTAW) & Opportunities Development Strategy

PIC 1 PIC 2 PIC 3 PIC 4

• Study Plan • Study Vision, Purpose, Goals, and • Overview of Transportation and Objectives Discussion Paper Socio-Economic Conditions • Factors Influencing Transportation • Transportation Report • Transportation Development Strategy Demand Discussion Paper Alternatives Report • Overview of Environmental • Transportation Problems and Report Conditions and Opportunities Report Constraints Report

We Are Here

NGTA -13- NGTANGTA -- RecentRecent EventsEvents

MTAG/RAAG Meeting (February 5, 2009) Overview of Transportation Problems & Opportunities Summary of Public Information Centre #2 MEAG Meeting (February 12, 2009) Overview of Transportation Problems & Opportunities Summary of Public Information Centre #2 Discuss Inter-regional Municipal Issues PIC #2 (February 24, 26, & March 3, 2009) Realtors Association of Hamilton-Burlington (March 26, 2009) Hamilton Public Works & Staff Advisory Committees (April 20, 2009) Airport Employment Growth District (May 19, 2009) Transportation Service Providers (Hamilton Port Authority, CN, CP, Hamilton Airport, GO Transit) (Spring 2009)

NGTA -14- GTAGTA WestWest -- RecentRecent EventsEvents

RAAG & Advisory Group Meetings (February 2009) Goals and Objectives Existing Conditions Predicting Future Transportation Conditions Transportation Context, Problems & Opportunities – Unique to GTA West are land development pressures Upcoming Consultation

PIC #2 (March 4, 5, 9, 11, & 12, 2009) Think Tank Session for NGTA and GTA West Studies (June 8/9 2009) Examining issues and potential solutions for each transportation component (mode)

NGTA -15- NGTANGTA -- PICPIC #2#2 UpdateUpdate

Major Comments: Major Comments (continued): Multi-Modal Approach / Opportunities Methodology Support for consideration and How long before MTO makes a decision? assessment of all modes (i.e. not just a Inquiries regarding the process for highway solution) considering alternatives Inquiries regarding the relationship of Focus on rail solutions the “Mid-Pen Study” to the NGTA Study First priority is to optimize the existing Inquiries regarding how the Project transportation system Team will document assumptions (e.g. Where are the alternatives and gas prices, currency rates) in developing proposed routes? alternatives? Suggestions for new routes General Comments, Concerns & Examine opportunities for cross-lake Suggestions people and goods movement Concerns regarding the current economic outlook for the region Consider issues and effects related to peak oil Concern regarding potential impacts to the natural environment and agriculture Stakeholder Consultation & Participation Make allowances for less growth than Displays are clear, informative and the Growth Plan specifies understandable Appreciation for / frustration with the Total Attendance = 270 length of the study Total Comment Sheets Received = 35

NGTA -16- GTAGTA WestWest -- PICPIC #2#2 UpdateUpdate

Major Comments: Major Comments (continued): Public Consultation Alternatives Informative PIC displays and helpful staff Skepticism that MTO already knows where the highway / corridor will be located Study Area Inquiries regarding alternatives? General questions about the study area Appreciation for multi-modal options boundaries – Public transit and rail should be priority Corridor Protection/Areas of Interest Improve existing infrastructure How were they determined and what do they Develop bold/visionary transportation solutions mean? Emphasis on goods movement by rail Inquiries regarding locations for the corridor. General questions about the process for evaluating alternatives Timeframe/Scope of Study Study process is too long Environmental Concerns Study relationship to the past Highway 413 Protect agricultural lands/rural state, recreation areas, and the natural environment Consider transportation solutions from other jurisdictions / internationally Confusion regarding Greenbelt and Niagara Escarpment corridor restrictions Transportation Problems and Opportunities/Modeling Congestion is an issue for all, particularly truckers Total Attendance = 352 Outdated / inaccurate data concerns (e.g. Total Comment Sheets Received = 37 current economy)

NGTA -17- TransportationTransportation ProblemsProblems && OpportunitiesOpportunities UpdateUpdate

Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Reports will be distributed for public & agency review in July 2009. Contents include: Demand forecasting approach and assumptions; Consultation findings – TSP / BCS, other groups; Future demand forecasts; Overview of transportation problems; and Overview of opportunities for transportation improvements to support study objectives. Transportation Problems and Opportunities Reports to be finalized by late Summer 2009.

NGTA -18- Process Framework for Developing & Assessing Transportation Alternatives

Key Concepts: The development and assessment of alternatives will be undertaken at an increasing level of detail. Environmental considerations are being applied early in the study process based on secondary source information. Base Case includes existing transportation conditions plus: MTO Planned Improvements; Metrolinx Regional Transportati on Plan: “The Big Move”, November 2008; GO Transit 2020 Service Plan; and Approved Municipal Official Plans and Transportation Master Plans. The focus of this exercise is to identify a multi-modal transportation solution.

NGTA -19- Three-stage Process for Generating, Assessing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Combination Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Marine Roads & Highways Focus of Today’s Discussion

NGTA -20- Three-stage Process for Generating, Assessing and Selecting Inter-Regional Transportation Alternatives STAGE 2: Combination Alternatives Examples Optimize Existing Networks • Transit • Marine • ATMS • Rail • TDM • HOV Lanes in Existing RoW • Roads & • TSM Highways • Intermodal • Increased # or Frequency of Trains • Air Combo 1 • Expanded Bus Service Area Develop and Assess Combo 2 Alternatives New/Expanded • Expansion of Marine Ports Non-Road Infrastructure • New Rail Lines in Existing Corridors • Air • Combo 1 plus • Bus Only Lanes in New / Existing RoW • Transit • Marine PIC • Rail Combo 2 # 3

Develop and Assess Combo 3 Alternatives Widen Roads • Widening 400 Series Highways • Combo 2 plus • Widening of Various Inter-regional Municipal Roads • Widen/Improve Roads & Highways Combo 3

Develop and Assess Combo 4 Alternatives • New Inter-regional King’s Highways New Road Infrastructure • New 400 Series Highways • Elements of Combo 3 plus • Extensions of 400 Series Highways • New Roads & Highways Combo NGTA 4 -21- GeneratingGenerating CombinationCombination AlternativesAlternatives atat aa BroadBroad LevelLevel ofof DetailDetail

NGTA -22- Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS Community Existing and Planned Future Land Use and Qualitative assessment of how the combination alternative supports existing Growth: and planned land use including: The degree to which the combination alternative supports or is • Provincial Policy Statement re agriculture, etc. consistent with existing and planned future land use and growth • Provincial Growth Plan – re land use intensification including recognition of growth management plans and policies as • Municipal official plans – re residential and commercial growth directions articulated in provincial policies, federal policies and municipal • NEC plan – re protection of natural and rural land uses official plans. • Greenbelt Plan – re protection of agricultural and rural land uses • Upper Tier Municipal Official Plans Community Features: Qualitative assessment of potential positive and negative (displacement / Potential impacts to community features (e.g. land use, disruption) impacts on: communities, resources). • Land use • Existing and planned communities • Resource extraction areas Fragmentation of Agricultural Lands: Qualitative assessment of potential fragmentation of agricultural lands and Potential loss and fragmentation of agricultural lands. estimated area / description of loss of agricultural lands.

Cultural Features: Qualitative assessment of impacts to properties of cultural heritage value and Potential impacts cultural features (e.g. properties of cultural archaeological potential. heritage and archaeological significance).

First Nations: Qualitative description of impacts to First Nation sites. Potential impacts to lands of cultural or historical significance to First Nations.

NGTA -23- Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS Economy Manufacturing and trade: Qualitative description of how the combination alternative supports The degree to which the combination alternative supports manufacturing and trade. provincial, regional and municipal manufacturing and trade.

Tourism and Recreation: Qualitative description of how the combination alternatives support tourism and The degree to which the combination alternative supports recreation from economic perspective. provincial, regional and municipal tourism and recreation. Economic and Agricultural Development: Qualitative description of how the combination alternatives support or impact The degree to which the combination alternative supports agricultural operations and plans for future development. provincial, regional and municipal economic and agricultural development, including areas designated for future / long-term agricultural land uses. Urban Growth Centre Connections: Qualitative assessment of how the combination alternative aligns with The degree to which the combination alternative provides provincial policies for Urban Growth Centers and Gateway Economic Zones. connections to Urban Growth Centres and Gateway Economic Zones identified in provincial policy.

NGTA -24- Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS

Environment Environmental Protection Policies: Qualitative assessment of how the combination alternative aligns with federal, The degree to which the proposed transportation system provincial and municipal environmental protection policies. modification supports or is consistent with federal, provincial and municipal environmental protection policies.

Natural Features and Functions: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of: Potential impacts to natural features and functions (e.g. aquatic • Potential impacts to major aquatic ecosystems (number of water ecosystems, terrestrial ecosystems, ground water, surface water). crossings) • Potential impacts to major terrestrial ecosystems (area of terrestrial habitat potentially affected) • Potential impacts to sensitive groundwater features (qualitative description) • Potential impacts to areas that are sensitive to changes in surface water (qualitative description) • Description of potential to avoid or minimize impacts to environmental features.

Air Quality: Qualitative assessment (using quantitative inputs) of: The degree to which the combination alternative results in changes • Potential changes in greenhouse gas emissions and criteria air to transportation related GHG and toxic air emissions. contaminants (CACs); and • Potential changes in air quality on a regional level.

Resource Consumption: Qualitative assessment of the combination alternatives ability to minimize The degree to which the combination alternative minimizes resource consumption and description of potential mineral and aggregate resource consumption (i.e. mineral, aggregate). resource issues.

NGTA -25- Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS Transportation Planning Policies: Qualitative assessment with direct reference to key policies / goals. Potential to support federal / provincial / municipal transportation planning policies / goals / objectives. Efficient movement of people: Peak period transportation system performance: Potential to support the efficient movement of people between • % of inter-regional system operating at or better than LOS D communities and regions based on network, screenline and • Performance/LOS of key inter-regional corridors (QEW, 406, 403, 401, 427, critical link performance and availability of higher order, inter- 407, 400, inter-regional transit) regional transportation corridors. Availability/provision of higher order, inter-regional transportation corridors for person trips.

Reduction in use of local/regional roadways for inter-regional trips. Efficient movement of goods: Peak period transportation system performance: Potential to support efficient movement of goods between urban • % of inter-regional system operating at or better than LOS D growth centres and regional intermodal facilities and communities • v/c ratio of key truck corridors (road and rail) based on road network performance measures and availability of Availability/provision of higher order, inter-regional transportation corridors for higher order, inter-regional transportation corridors. goods movement.

Provision of inter-modal facilities and linkages between shipping modes / terminals.

Reduction in use of local / regional roadways for inter-regional trips. System reliability / redundancy: Availability of alternate routes/facilities for inter-regional transportation between Potential to support system reliability and redundancy for travel regions, communities and terminals. (people and goods) between regions and communities during congested/adverse conditions. Safety: Potential to improve response times for emergency service providers due to Potential to improve traffic safety based on opportunity to reduce reduced congestion on the inter-regional road network (average speed/ v/c ratio). congestion on area road network. Potential to reduce collisions due to improved network LOS and decreased conflicts between travel modes.

NGTA -26- Factors for Assessing Combination Alternatives in Stage 2

FACTOR / CRITERIA INDICATOR / DETAILS Transportation Modal integration, balance and choice for movement of people (commuters, recreation / • Provision of higher order inter-regional transit services. • Provision of linkages between inter-regional and regional/community transit tourist): systems. Potential to improve modal integration, balance and choice for • Bus operational performance on inter-regional road network (LOS) person trips between communities, employment centres and • Availability/provision of alternate travel modes for tourism/recreational travel. major transit hubs. • Provision of/ allowance for active transportation measures (e.g., bike lanes, bike Potential to increase the attractiveness/effectiveness of transit racks on buses/trains). options to for all trips. Modal integration, balance and choice for Availability/provision of modal alternatives for goods movement. movement of goods: Potential to improve modal integration, balance and choice for goods movement between ports and terminals, communities and employment centres. Linkages to Population and Employment Centres: Availability/provision of higher order linkages between urban growth centres. Potential to improve accessibility to urban growth centres for people and goods movement based on higher order network Average travel times between urban centres. continuity and connectivity. Recreation and Tourism Travel: Directness of routes between population centres, international gateways and Potential to support recreation and tourism travel within and tourist/recreation destinations to/from the Preliminary Study Area. Peak period (summer/weekend) transportation system performance: • % of inter-regional system operating at or better than LOS D. • Performance/LOS of key inter-regional corridors (QEW, 406, 403, 401, 427, 400, 407, inter-regional transit). Diversion of summer recreational trips from local and regional roadways. Constructability: Relative costs. Potential ease of implementation considering feasibility/difficulty Relative property impacts. of physical, property or environmental constraints and relative Potential for requirements for significant environmental mitigation. cost (where possible to approximate).

NGTA -27- ConsultationConsultation ApproachApproach

Stage 1 – Individual Alternatives Consultation with transportation service providers to determine the reasonableness of alternatives and potential limitations. Meetings with Advisory Groups (MTAG, RAAG and CAG) to present and discuss the three-stage process for generating, assessing and selecting inter-regional transportation alternatives and input on the identification of transportation alternatives. Stage 2 – Combination Alternatives Meetings with each of the advisory groups (MTAG, RAAG and CAG). Public Information Centre #3 focused on the development of combination alternatives and the assessment of advantages and disadvantages. Stage 3 – Preliminary Planning Meetings with each of the advisory groups (MTAG, RAAG and CAG). Public Information Centre #4 focused on the generation and evaluation of Preliminary Planning alternatives and the identification of a draft Transportation Development Strategy.

NGTA -28- What’sWhat’s NextNext

Next Steps: NGTA & GTAW Community Advisory Group Meetings (late June 2009) Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report for Stakeholder Review (July 2009) Final Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report (late summer 2009) Develop and Assess Combination Alternatives (summer 2009) Advisory Group Consultation (fall 2009) PIC #3 (fall 2009)

NGTA -29- DiscussionDiscussion

Questions of clarification on the proposed 3-stage process?

Any additional comments on the criteria for assessing combination alternatives relative to your agency’s mandate?

NGTA -30- NN NGGGTTTAAA

Meeting: Joint Regulatory Agencies Advisory Group (RAAG) Niagara to GTA Corridor and GTA West Corridor Planning and Environmental Assessment Studies Holiday Inn Burlington, Burlington NC Room Location: 3063 South Service Road, Burlington Purpose: Process Framework for Developing & Date: Friday June 19, 2009 Assessing Transportation Alternatives Chair: Glenn Pothier (GLPi) (facilitator) Time: 1:30 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.

Present: NGTA and GTA West Project Team John Slobodzian, MTO Sandy Nairn, Ecoplans Terry Hilditch, MTO Mike Delsey, AECOM Heide Garbot, MTO Karin Wall, AECOM Frank Pravitz, MTO Patrick Puccini, URS Steve Baczyk, MTO Glenn Pothier, GLPi (facilitator)

RAAG Representatives Randy Marsh CPR Jennifer Lawrence Conservation Halton Kathryn Pounder NEC Carlene Whittingham MMAH Marc Magierowicz MMAH Steven Strong MNR, Aurora Solange Desautels MOE Barb Slattery MOE Les Koch Hydro One Steve Woolfenden CEAA Dave Gibson DFO Drew Crinklaw OMAFRA Jamie Ferguson Grand River Conservation Authority Karla Barboza Ministry of Culture Dave Marriott MNR Denise Fell Environment Canada Beth Williston TRCA

- 1 - NN NGGGTTTAAA

Items Description

1 Opening Remarks

G. Pothier (GLPi), independent facilitator, provided a session overview and thanked the attendees for coming to the meeting.

2 & 3 NGTA and GTA West Study Updates and Transportation Problems and Opportunities Reports

M. Delsey provided a brief overview of the status of the NGTA and GTA West studies. He described the study areas for both studies, the study process that both studies are following, as well as a summary of recent events, including the second round of Public Information Centres.

He also noted that the Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report for both studies is in the process of being finalized and will be available for stakeholder review later this summer.

4 Process Framework for Developing and Assessing Transportation Alternatives

S. Nairn presented the process framework that has been developed by the Project Team to guide the development and assessment of the transportation alternatives.

He also discussed the environmental and transportation criteria that the Project Team has developed for assessing the alternatives at a broad level.

The presentation handout package containing this information has been appended to these minutes for ease of reference.

The following summarizes the items discussed during and after the presentation:

• Question: Will the Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report for both studies be available for review?

Response: Yes.

• Comment: The alternatives for the NGTA and GTA West studies should be considered in a coordinated fashion.

Response: Agreed. The studies are closely coordinated, and will continue to be throughout the “Alternatives” phase of the project.

• Question: In developing the transportation alternatives, will improvements in a north-south orientation be considered as well as improvements in an east-west orientation?

Response: Yes, we will be considering alternatives in both the north-south and east-west orientation for both studies.

• Question: In favour of the building block approach that has been developed for generating the transportation alternatives. Does this mean that in the scenario that Combination #2 addressed all of the transportation problems and opportunities the Project Team would not proceed to Combination #3?

Response: Yes, if it was found that the improvements corresponding to a Combination alternative (in this case Combo #2) could fully address the

- 2 - NN NGGGTTTAAA

Items Description transportation problems and opportunities, the Project Team would not proceed to Combination #3.

• Question: Will the RAAG agencies be given the opportunity to review the process of generating the transportation alternatives?

Response: Yes, the process will be presented at the third round of Public Information Centres, and will be fully documented in the Area Transportation System Alternatives Report at the end of this phase of both studies.

• Comment: The Project Team should base the assessment of land use impacts on approved Official Plans.

Response: Agreed, however, the Project Team will also consider potential impacts based on proposed Official Plans.

• Question: How will impacts to First Nations be assessed? Will they be consulting with First Nations on this assessment?

Response: The Project Team has been consulting with First Nations throughout the study, and will continue to seek their feedback as the project moves forward into the generation and assessment of transportation alternatives.

• Question: Will the transportation alternatives be further refined as the assessment process proceeds?

Response: Yes. If in going through the assessment of the transportation alternatives, it becomes apparent that certain refinements to some of the alternatives would result in a better set of alternatives, these refinements will be incorporated and assessed accordingly.

• Comment: Concerned that key decisions will be made based on the high level assessment that the Project Team will be conducting before the next round of consultation, and that these decisions may be affected by issues that don’t emerge until the alternatives are assessed at a more detailed level.

Response: This is a common concern on large scale Individual EAs. The Ministry’s position is that if a critical issue emerges during later stages that wasn’t apparent during earlier stages, it is incumbent on the proponent to determine the significance of the issue and update the recommendations as appropriate.

It should be noted that there will be a more detailed assessment of the transportation alternatives subsequent to PIC #3 based on more specific environmental and transportation criteria, which will be presented to the RAAG agencies at a future meeting.

In addition, following this phase of the EA study, route planning will be undertaken for any recommendations that fall within the jurisdiction of the Ministry. A detailed assessment of the route alternatives would also be undertaken at that stage.

• Comment: Many of the environmental criteria that have been presented focus on impacts to specific types of environmental features rather than focusing on environmental systems. It would be more appropriate to use a systems based approach.

- 3 - NN NGGGTTTAAA

Items Description

Response: Agreed. We are seeking the RAAG agencies assistance in identifying the most appropriate process for assessing the broad level transportation alternatives. Assistance in identifying the types of systems impacts that should be considered would be very beneficial to the Project Team.

• Comment: The Project Team should consider a sensitivity and function based approach in assessing the transportation alternatives. As an example, differentiate between edge impacts and core impacts for woodlots.

Response: Agreed. Assistance in identifying criteria where this type of approach should be utilized would be very beneficial to the Project Team.

• Comment: The Project Team should remain cognizant of the provincial priorities embodied in each of the relevant approved provincial policies as they undertake the assessment of the transportation alternatives.

Response: Agreed.

• Question: How will the effect of the transportation alternatives on Greenhouse Gases be assessed? Would it be a regional assessment, or would it be possible to differentiate between the affects of alternatives in certain areas.

Response: This issue has been discussed with the air quality experts on the Project Team. While we will attempt to be as specific as possible, the level of detail that can be achieved will depend to some extent on the nature of the alternatives.

• Comment: Consideration should be given to the potential impacts of the transportation alternatives during the construction phase, e.g. noise impacts.

Response: Comment noted. This issue will be further considered by the Project Team.

5 Next Steps and Open Forum It was agreed that the material presented at this meeting would be distributed to all members of the RAAG (including those unable to attend) with these meeting minutes.

The meeting attendees agreed to provide further comments and advice to the Project Team with respect to the assessment of the transportation alternatives subsequent to the meeting within a four week timeframe.

6 Closing Remarks J. Slobodzian provided closing remarks and noted that the Project Team greatly appreciates all of the feedback that has been provided by RAAG agencies for both the NGTA and GTA West studies to date and looks forward to their assistance in identifying the criteria to be assessed as well as the findings of the assessment of the transportation alternatives.

He also noted that he has taken another position within the Ministry and will no longer be the Project Coordinator for the NGTA Study. He thanked attendees for their support on both projects and noted that Roger Ward will be assuming the role of Project Coordinator in mid-July.

Meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m.

- 4 - GTA West

GTAGTA WESTWEST CORRIDORCORRIDOR PLANNINGPLANNING ANDAND EAEA STUDYSTUDY--STAGESTAGE 11

RegulatoryRegulatory AgencyAgency AdvisoryAdvisory GroupGroup MeetingMeeting

NOVEMBER 10, 2009 GTA West MeetingMeeting AgendaAgenda

• Welcome and Introductions • GTA West Study Update •Background • Transportation Alternatives and Process Framework • Individual Mode Alternatives • Modal Alternative Groups • Next Steps

2 GTA West StudyStudy PurposePurpose

3 GTA West StudyStudy ProcessProcess

4 GTA West PolicyPolicy ContextContext

• Growth Plan • Greenbelt Plan • Niagara Escarpment Plan • Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan • Provincial Policy Statement • Official Plans

5 GTA West GTAGTA WestWest StudyStudy AreaArea –– KeyKey FeaturesFeatures

6 GTA West OverallOverall StudyStudy ProcessProcess

2007 We are Here 2010

Transportation Terms of Transportation Problems & Alternatives Reference Development Strategy Opportunities

PIC 1 PIC 2 PIC 3 PIC 4

7 GTA West TransportationTransportation ProblemsProblems && OpportunitiesOpportunities UpdateUpdate

• Future Transportation Problems categorized by: ¾ Commuters ¾ Tourism and Recreation ¾ Goods Movement

• Future Transportation Opportunities ¾ Compact, vibrant and complete communities ¾ A prosperous and competitive economy ¾ A protected environment

• Draft Transportation Problems and Opportunities Report distributed for public & agency review in Summer 2009.

8 GTA West Process for Developing & AssessiAssessingng TransportaTransportationtion AlternaAlternativestives

Key Concepts: • The development and assessment of alternatives will be undertaken at an increasing level of detail. • Environmental considerations are being applied early in the study process based on secondary source information. • All alternatives include existing transportation conditions plus: ¾ MTO Planned Improvements; ¾ Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan: “The Big Move”, November 2008; ¾ GO Transit 2020 Service Plan; and ¾ Approved Municipal Official Plans and Transportation Master Plans. • The focus is to identify a multi-modal transportation solution.

9 GTA West Process for Developing & AssessiAssessingng TransportaTransportationtion AlternaAlternativestives

10 GTA West Three-Stage Process for Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Group of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Modal Improvement Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Transit Intermodal • High level assessment of Environmental, Economic & Community factors. Marine Roads & Highways

11 GTA West Consultation

The Creative Process The Project Team has conducted extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders to receive ideas on possible alternatives. This has included:

12 GTA West StudyStudy UpdateUpdate

• Analysis of individual modal alternatives • Developing groups of alternatives • Consultation activities • Considered policy changes that may be required

13 GTA West Key Policy Issues Group 1 A. Parking management where transit services are provided B. Continued use of Longer Combination Commercial Vehicles C. Improved integration of private bus operations with GO Rail stations D. Optimize use of Highway 407 E. Congestion pricing on freeways F. Expanded use of buses on shoulders during peak periods G. Provincial / region-wide TDM Strategy Group 2 A. Develop Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and multi-purpose lanes along rail corridors Group 3 A. Extensive widening requirements – e.g. beyond what is currently shown in Municipal Transportation Master Plans Group 4 A. Separate trucks from other vehicles when implementing new infrastructure to facilitate goods movement 14 GTA West ThreeThree--StageStage ProcessProcess forfor AlternativesAlternatives

Stage 1: Individual Alternatives

Develop Group of Modal Improvement Alternatives

15 GTA West Individual Mode Alternatives

TDM/TSM Transit

17 GTA West Three-Stage Process for Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Group of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Modal Improvement Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Transit Intermodal • High level assessment of Environmental, Economic & Community factors. Marine Roads & Highways

18 GTA West GroupGroup 1:1: OptimizeOptimize ExistingExisting NetworkNetwork

This alternative Group includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

Additional examples include: • Speed harmonization • TDM programs •Ramp metering systems • Transit / HOV bypass locations • Incident management and detection •

19 GTA West GroupGroup 1:1: OptimizeOptimize ExistingExisting NetworkNetwork

Summary of the Assessment • Community Outcome of Group ¾ Supports the PPS policy for optimizing use of existing infrastructure ¾ Minimizes impacts to NEC and Greenbelt lands 1 High Level ¾ Minimizes impacts to community features ¾ Low potential to impact agricultural lands ¾ Low potential to impact built heritage or archaeological resources Assessment: ¾ Does not sufficiently support planned future land use or growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Limited ability to provide improved transit connections between Urban Growth Centres (i.e., Vaughan Corporate •Good Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) ¾ Does not support “employment lands” or “moving goods” sections of the Growth Plan transportation ¾ Does not provide increased goods movement linkages among intermodal facilities or communities in the GGH • Economy strategy ¾ No impacts to agricultural operations ¾ Does not support economic factors associated with industry and trade, tourism or agriculture ¾ Limited ability to support increased trade through lack of improvement to movement of goods •Does not fully ¾ Limited ability to support existing or future industry ¾ Limited ability to service provincial/regional or municipal tourism or improve service for traffic going to areas address Problems beyond GTA ¾ Limited ability to improve connections between Urban Growth Centres & Opportunities ¾ Does not address nature of goods movement around GTA, which is heavily oriented to “Just in Time” and short- haul delivery • Environment •Group 1 ¾ Supports environmental protection policies (PPS, NEC, Greenbelt etc.) ¾ Minimizes footprint impacts at natural features or to natural functions improvements are ¾ Minimizes impacts to air quality ¾ Minimizes resource consumption carried forward • Transportation ¾ Fails to address transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area into Group 2 ¾ Limited improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement ¾ Limited improvement to transportation system operations, reliability, redundancy and safety ¾ Minor potential to improve modal integration for people and goods movement ¾ Limited potential to improve modal integration for goods movement ¾ Limited improvement to accessibility of Urban Growth Centres ¾ Limited potential to support recreation and tourism travel ¾ Optimized use of existing infrastructure ¾ No significant constructability issues; minor delays on inter-regional road network beyond MTO programmed works 20 GTA West Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 21 GTA West Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure

This alternative Group includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

Additional examples include: • Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes • Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph) • New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres (Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph)

22 GTA West Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure

Summary of the Assessment • Community ¾ Supports the PPS policy for optimizing use of existing infrastructure Outcome of Group ¾ Relatively minor impacts to NEC and Greenbelt lands ¾ Can result in positive land use impacts as transit hubs tend to attract more accessible development patterns 2 High Level ¾ Overall increase in transportation options may benefit those who are physically, economically and socially disadvantaged Assessment: ¾ Potential for improved walking and cycling connections ¾ Some potential to provide improved connections between Urban Growth Centres (i.e., Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) •Significant ¾ Low potential to impact agricultural lands ¾ Low potential to impact archaeological resources and cultural landscapes improvement to ¾ Limited ability to support planned future land use or growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Does not support “employment lands” or “moving goods” sections of the Growth Plan overall ¾ Does not provide increased goods movement linkages among intermodal facilities and communities in the GGH ¾ Some potential to impact community features and resources in built-up areas where corridors are widened to transportation accommodate transit or rail, or at transit hubs • Economy ¾ Some potential to improve service to existing and future industry and to improve trade over longer distances service, ¾ Potential improvement for existing tourism operations ¾ Relatively minor impacts to agricultural operations accessibility and ¾ Improves connections between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Does not address nature of goods movement, which is heavily oriented to mode choice “Just in Time” and short-haul delivery ¾ Limited ability to service provincial/regional tourism • Environment •Does not fully ¾ Supports environmental protection policies ¾ Potentially minimizes resource consumption address Problems ¾ Minimizes footprint impacts at natural features or to natural functions where widening or new alignment is required ¾ Potential for minor impacts to air quality through built-up areas & Opportunities • Transportation ¾ Fails to address transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area •Group 1 & 2 ¾ Limited improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement ¾ Limited improvement to transportation system operations, reliability, redundancy and safety improvements are ¾ Major potential to improve modal integration for people movement ¾ Limited potential to improve modal integration for goods movement ¾ Significant improvement to transit linkages between Urban Growth Centres carried forward ¾ Moderate potential to improvement to recreation and tourism travel, with new and improved transit services ¾ Minor constructability issues; minor delays on inter-regional road network beyond MTO programmed works into Groups 3 & 234 GTA West ThreeThree--StageStage ProcessProcess forfor AlternativesAlternatives

Stage 2: Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives

24 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

• Group 3 alternatives include elements from Groups 1 and 2 ¾ Metrolinx RTP ¾ GO 2020 strategies ¾ TDM programs ¾ New bus rapid transit links between urban growth centres

• Widened provincial highways (Highway 401, 410, 427, 400) and 407ETR

WITH OR WITHOUT

• Widened regional/county roads with bypasses around built-up areas (e.g. Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, Erin)

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 25 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads Alternative 3-1

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 28 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

Summary of the Assessment • Community ¾ Supports the PPS by optimizing the use of existing infrastructure ¾ Relatively minor impacts to NEC lands and Greenbelt ¾ Low potential to impact agricultural operations and results in less loss of agricultural lands because most impacts are on the fringe ¾ Low potential to impact archaeological resources because most areas have been previously disturbed ¾ Group 3-1 has minimal impact on community features, because it uses Provincial highways ¾ Groups 3-2 and 3-3 provide improved access to future employment areas in Brampton and Caledon ¾ Limited ability to support planned future land use or growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Limited ability to provide improved connections between some Urban Growth Centres ¾ Group 3-2 has potential for significant direct (i.e., displacement and access) impacts to land uses and community features in places such as Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, Erin, Caledon, etc., although bypasses may reduce impacts ¾ Group 3-2 has potential for significant direct impacts (i.e., displacement/loss) to built heritage features along existing roads and in communities named above, although bypasses may reduce impacts ¾ Groups 3-2 & 3-3 include major municipal widenings that may not be consistent with municipal plans, policies, transportation master plans and/or Official Plans • Economy ¾ Some ability to service future industry along existing travel corridors ¾ Additional capacity reduces congestion and facilitates goods movement and trade ¾ Provides improved access to tourism /recreation operations along existing travel corridors ¾ Additional capacity reduces congestion and facilitates improved travel for tourism and recreational purposes ¾ Groups 3-2 and 3-3 may improve tourism opportunities for new and existing attractions in northern sections of study area ¾ Relatively minor impacts to agricultural operations ¾ Group 3-2 - a new bypass (around Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown, Erin, Caledon and/or Mono Mills) could potentially open up lands for new business or light industrial expansion ¾ Limited ability to improve connections between Urban Growth Centres (i.e., Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton and Downtown Guelph) ¾ Potential bypasses around Rockwood, Acton, Georgetown Erin, Caledon and Mono Mills may reduce exposure for businesses in existing built-up areas ¾ Groups 3-2 and 3-3 could impact agricultural operations through property access, “fringe” impacts and indirect proximity impacts

29 GTA West GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

Summary of Assessment (contd.) Outcome of Group 3 • Environment ¾ Supports PPS Policy for the protection of Natural Heritage, Agricultural and Cultural High Level Assessment: Heritage/Archaeological resources ¾ Minimizes fragmentation of environmental protection policy areas (i.e., NEC, Greenbelt and ORM) ¾ Potential for less resource consumption or mineral and aggregate resource related •Generally addresses issues ¾ Increased emissions along existing major travel corridors in built-up areas, where sensitive receptors are located. Proximity to receptors increases exposure transportation service / ¾ Impacts many environmental features. Although footprint widening may be considered less severe than fragmentation of natural areas, frequency of crossings congestion issues and ability to mitigate through design may be restricted because of property constraints and design limitations imposed by existing infrastructure. •Limited capacity to • Transportation ¾ Address people and goods movement transportation problems and opportunities in accommodate growth the GTA West study area ¾ Major improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement, with improved beyond 2031 inter-regional transportation system operations ¾ Major improvement to transportation system operations and safety •Does not provide ¾ Moderate improvement to transportation system reliability and redundancy ¾ Moderate potential to improve modal integration for people and goods movement adequate redundancy ¾ Major potential to improve linkages and accessibility between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Major improvement to recreation and tourism travel and directness of routes to and reliability tourist/ recreation destinations in the GTA and northern Ontario ¾ Significant constructability and staging issues •Has potential for ¾ No new inter-regional transportation corridors ¾ Alternatives 3-1 and 3-3 provide limited roadway redundancy improvements community impacts ¾ Alternatives 3-1 and 3-3 provide limited roadway improvements to Guelph •Carried forward for further consideration 30 GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor

• Group 4 alternatives include elements from Groups 1, 2 and 3 ¾ Metrolinx TRP ¾ GO 2020 strategies ¾ TDM programs ¾ New bus rapid transit link between urban growth centres

• New corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 410, with possible connections to Highway 401 east or west of Milton • New corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 6 (north or south of Guelph)

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 31 GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-1

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 32 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-2

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 33 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-3

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 34 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-4

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 35 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor Alternative 4-5

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 36 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GTA West Group 4: Includes New Transportation Corridor

Summary of Assessment • Community ¾ Support planned future land use and growth as identified in the Growth Plan ¾ Improve connections between Urban Growth Centres ¾ Address development pressures in Peel and York Regions ¾ Less impacts on community features, land uses and built-up areas ¾ Less impacts on built heritage features in communities throughout study area ¾ Cross varying portions of NEC and Greenbelt designated areas. Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 cross the largest sections of NEC and Greenbelt lands ¾ Potential to change or affect the “rural” character of some communities ¾ Potential increased nuisance impacts (i.e., noise, illumination etc.) in areas closest to new facility ¾ Potential fragmentation of agricultural operations and loss of Class 1 lands ¾ New crossing of Humber River has potential to impact Canadian Heritage River and trails (including Toronto Carrying Place Trail) – although impacts can be minimized through design and span of new structures ¾ Potential impacts to archaeological resources in previously undisturbed areas ¾ Potential to impact cultural features near Norval (Alternatives 4-2 and 4-3), Ballinafad and Cheltenham (Alternative 4-4) and Speyside, Scotch Block and Brookville (Alternative 4-5) ¾ Alternatives 4-1 and 4-2 have limited ability to serve Milton/Halton Hills growth areas • Economy ¾ New corridors provide economic opportunities for industry and improved trade ¾ Provide improved access to CP inter-modal terminal in Vaughan and CN inter-modal terminal in Brampton ¾ Connect major existing and emerging nodes that are the focus of the logistics/wholesale trade sectors for growth in Halton and provide improved access to these areas for the labour force. ¾ Alternative 4-4 provides significantly improved access to eco-recreational areas many of which are located along the Niagara Escarpment ¾ Alternative 4-5 would enhance the area’s economic competitiveness by improving access to existing and planned industrial areas and inter-modal facilities, taking pressure off municipal roads, reducing the cost of congestion, and enhancing transportation system efficiency and reliability/redundancy for growth centres throughout the study area, from Vaughan to Guelph and on to Kitchener-Waterloo ¾ Provide service to existing and future industry ¾ Support improved connections for intra-provincial and international tourism, including to/from Lester B. Pearson International Airport ¾ Improve connections between Urban Growth Centres through network redundancy ¾ Potential impacts on linked agricultural operations although route selection process and mitigation could reduce impacts 37 GTA West GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor

Summary of Assessment (contd.) Outcome of Group 4 • Environment ¾ Potential for significant impacts to previously undisturbed Greenbelts lands High Level ¾ New corridors offer some opportunities to increase separation distance between built-up areas and transportation corridor Assessment: ¾ New corridors offer some opportunities to minimize impacts at environmentally sensitive features through route selection phases and design of new crossings, structures, etc. ¾ Potential to impact, result in loss of and fragment lands designated by Greenbelt and NEC Plans ¾ Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 have the most potential to impact, result in loss of and fragment lands designated by Greenbelt and NEC Plans •Generally addresses ¾ Potential to impact many significant ESAs, ANSIs, wetlands, groundwater recharge areas etc. especially those west of Georgetown, although some features can be avoided through route selection process and design of crossings transportation service ¾ New corridor alternatives have most potential to impact surface water conditions ¾ Alternatives 4-4 and 4-5 have potential for major resource consumption, based on their length / congestion issues, ¾ Alternative 4-5 impacts Halton shale • Transportation longer term capacity ¾ Address people and goods movement transportation problems and opportunities in the GTA West study area ¾ Major improvement to efficiency of people and goods movement, with improved inter-regional requirement, transportation system operations ¾ Major improvement to transportation system operations and safety accessibility to ¾ Major improvement to transportation system reliability and redundancy with new transportation corridor employment centres, ¾ Major potential to improve modal integration for people and goods movement ¾ Major potential to improve linkages and accessibility between Urban Growth Centres redundancy and ¾ Major improvement to recreation and tourism travel and directness of routes to tourist/ recreation destinations in the GTA and northern Ontario reliability ¾ Allows for higher order transit on new higher order roadway ¾ Significant constructability and staging issues •Has potential for ¾ Alternatives 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 provide limited roadway redundancy improvements in the western portion of the study area further environmental ¾ Alternatives 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3 provide limited roadway improvements to Guelph impacts •Carried forward for further consideration38 GTA West WhatWhat’’ss NextNext

• Public Information Centre #3 ¾ November 30th – Guelph PIC, River Run Centre ¾ December 3rd – Georgetown PIC, Mold Master Sportsplex ¾ December 8th – Caledon PIC, Brampton Fairgrounds ¾ December 10th – Woodbridge PIC, Le Jardin Conference & Events Centre

39 GTA West WhatWhat’’ss NextNext

EVALUATE GENERATE ASSESS EVALUATE AND SELECT

Present Draft Transportation Development Strategy

APPENDIX L UPPER-TIER MUNICIPAL AND COMMITTEE MEETING SUMMARY NOTES

GTA West Corridor Planning and EA Study Niagara to GTA Corridor Planning and EA Study

Summary of Joint Presentation to the Halton Region Planning and Public Works Committee November 12, 2009

Attendees:

Regional Chair Gary Carr Commissioner Mitch Zamojc Clerk Kathy Kielte Staff Andrew Head, Manager of Transportation Services

Burlington Jack Dennison

Halton Hills Mayor Rick Bonnette

Milton Barry Lee

Oakville Tom Adams Alan Johnston

MTO Jin Wang Roger Ward Will Mackenzie

Consultant Neil Ahmed Paul Hudspith Catherine Christiani

Media Metroland Halton Newspaper Group (includes Burlington Post, Oakville Beaver, Milton Champion, Georgetown Independent)

Notes:

Paul and Neil made a 30-minute joint presentation that included: Overall Study Process, Policy Context, Process for Developing and Assessing Transportation Alternatives, Recent Consultation, Individual Alternatives, Group 1, 2, 3 and 4 Alternatives and What’s Next. Following the presentation, Committee members asked questions and provided comments. Jin Wang assisted in the responses to some questions.

Topics of questions and comments included:

QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE • Costing – Is there any indication of what the • Not at this time. Cost will be estimated during Stage 3 proposed alternatives will cost to implement? of the evaluation of alternatives. • Proposed regional transit initiatives – Who • Metrolinx and GO Transit are the proponents for many is expected to operate and pay for the of the proposed projects in the study areas and they proposed regional transit initiatives? would be responsible for their implementation and operation. Municipalities may also be responsible for QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE some regional transit initiatives. • Banning trucks – Have the project teams • Yes, trucking restrictions have been considered. . It looked at the possibility of banning trucks was determined that this type of initiative would require during the peak hours? a significant policy change and is thus outside of the scope of both studies. • Tolling/Road pricing – Have the project • Tolling/Road pricing on existing highways is outside of teams looked at the possibility of the scope of both projects as it would require a implementing highway tolls? significant policy change. The current Ontario government direction is not to implement tolls/road pricing on existing highways. • Organization for Economic Co-operation • Yes. The report reiterates the challenges that both and Development Report - Have the project project teams have faced in their respective study teams reviewed the recently released report areas, particularly the multitude of issues associated on transportation and do they agree with the with congestion. While we have not completed a results? thorough review of this new report, the project teams largely concur with the work completed. • Construction timing – Assuming a new • This is difficult to predict as the outcome of both corridor is required, when would it be built? studies is unknown. Widening recommendations would need to undergo Class Environmental Assessment (EA) approval and new corridors would need to undergo route planning and Individual EA approval. These activities could take 4-5 years to complete Upon approval, design(?) of a new corridor would typically last 5 years. Implementation of projects this size is always subject to political will and adequate funding. • Growth Plan – What are the Growth Plan • The Growth Plan was released in 2006 and projected projections based on? Due to its age and the population and employment levels to 2031. The current economic situation, aren’t the Growth projections from the Growth Plan were used in the Plan projections outdated? projects modeling, in addition to more current data acquired from municipalities, including that from Sustainable Halton’s latest outcomes. • Lane requirements – Do the ultimate number • We have assumed the existing number of lanes plus of lanes predicted in the widening alternatives the programmed widenings as our starting point in include what currently exists? In some cases developing the various alternatives. The project teams whole service roads will need to be removed recognize that some widening options would require to accommodate the new lane requirements. additional property and represent a significant challenge; however, these impacts must be understood and compared to the impacts associated with new transportation corridors in order to make recommendations for a final transportation development strategy. • Would a parallel collector/express road design • The project teams are not yet at that level of detail; similar to Highway 401 in Toronto be however, a number of different lane arrangements may considered if the lane requirements become be considered during the next stage of this study. so large? • Build faster – New corridors need to be built • Noted. The project teams recognize that while there faster. Areas could lose their marketability can be impacts, there can also be large economic because the Ontario government isn’t building benefits associated with the implementation of a new required infrastructure fast enough. transportation corridor. • NGTA – Is the NGTA Project Team hesitant • No. There are many alternatives to consider and to propose a new corridor due to the history of extraordinary trade-offs to be evaluated before a final the study in the area? transportation development strategy is developed. • Niagara Escarpment – It is inevitable that • Noted. over the long term a new corridor will QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE eventually cross the Niagara Escarpment. • Increased fuel costs – Have the project • Increased fuel costs have been included in the project teams considered the effect that $5/L of gas modeling, in addition to increased parking costs, would have? increased auto operating costs and transit costs being maintained at 2006 levels. • Tolling/Road pricing – Have the project • The project modeling results indicate that in 2031 there teams examined what would happen if will be even congestion on Highway 407ETR in the Highway 407ETR -level tolls were GTA West study area, despite the presence of tolls. implemented on all 400-series highways? Tolling was not considered on any other facilities in the Highway 407ETR is currently under-utilized study areas since the current Ontario government due to the presence of tolls. direction is not to implement tolls/road pricing on existing highways. • Metrolinx has conducted research on tolling, and ran a scenario assuming that 407-level tolls on all 400- series highways. This research indicated that the diversion from auto to transit was not overly significant compared to the effect of increasing the operating cost of automobiles. • Instead of tolling/road pricing, the model used by the project teams assumed that the cost of operating an automobile would double. • Metrolinx is currently investigating investment strategy to fund the $50 billion dollar RTP. Tolling/road pricing might be considered as part of that.

Committee approved a motion requesting that both the GTA West and NGTA project teams review the effect that road pricing could have on the projects alternatives. It was indicated by members of the Committee that they would be attending the upcoming Public Information Centres and would report back to Committee in 2010.

GTA West Corridor Planning and EA Study

Summary of Presentation to Caledon Council November 17, 2009 Town of Caledon, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

COUNCILLORS ATTENDED: Mayor Marolyn Morrison Regional Councillors Richard Paterak (Ward 1) Allan Thompson (Ward 2) Richard Whitehead (Ward 3 & 4) Annette Groves (Ward 5) Area Councillors Doug Beffort (Ward 1) Nick deBoer (Ward 3 & 4) Jason Payne (Ward 5)

PROJECT TEAM STAFF MTO Jin Wang and Shelley Tapp Consultant Neil Ahmed and Katherine Jim, MRC

NOTES:

Jin requested Council extend time allowed from 5 minutes to 20 minutes for the delegation.

Through a 20-minute joint presentation using PowerPoint, Jin and Neil provided an overview of the background, study schedule and progress, alternative generation and evaluation process, groups of planning alternatives, and next steps. Following the presentation, there was an approximately 30-minute period of questions and comments by the Caledon Councillors chaired by Mayor Marolyn Morrison. The following summarizes key comments by the Councillors and responses by Jin and Neil.

Copies of the presentation were provided to the Town for distribution to the Councillors and an electronic copy of the presentation was provided to the Town.

It should be noted that a reporter from the Caledon Enterprise, Matthew Strader, was in attendance of the meeting and obtained a hard copy of the presentation. COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE Councillor • There is a recent Peel Region report about • Yes, we are aware of that and will Whitehead connecting Bolton Bypass to the proposed integrate the connection. realignment of Major Mackenzie Drive as part of the Highway 427 extension. Has that been included in the GTA West Study and do you have a copy of the report? • I am glad to see that efforts are being made • The Project Team has collected a lot of to look at the conflicts in the area. For ideas, and not all details are being example, at-grade road / rail crossing on presented in today’s presentation. The Bolton Arterial Road is a conflict that conflict between road / rail at-grade should be addressed. crossings in general has been identified as one of the conflicts that could be addressed. • Will there be a proposed route crossing • It is premature to determine whether a Caledon and where will it be? route will be crossing Caledon. All the alternatives for the proposed new transportation corridor are shown using a wide band to identify potential linkage points. No definite routes COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE have been identified at this point. • When will a decision be made? • The Stage 1 EA process is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2010, at which point the need for a new transportation corridor will be determined, as well as the general “band” and connection points will be identified. Thereafter, a route planning study will be carried out which will take approximately 3 years. • Caledon has to deal with a lot of planning • Comments noted. issues and it is important for us to know whether 1) a new corridor is recommended and 2) when it will be constructed. Councillor • Some of the alternatives identified a • A meeting is being arranged with OPA Thompson connection / terminus at Highway 401/407. and Hydro One. A separate meeting Brining the corridor to Highways 401/407 with Hydro One was held a few weeks will not help the transportation problems in ago. the long term since these roadways are already congested. It is important to look at the long term planning. A north-south connection should also be considered. Also, what about incorporating a new hydro corridor along the transportation corridor (i.e. similar to Highway 407)? Has OPA been contacted? • In the US, there are major corridors in the • We have heard similar suggestions at mid-west for truck traffic only. We should previous consultation / workshops; also consider something similar (i.e. a however, we have not carried out a corridor dedicated for trucks and buses feasibility study for a dedicated truck only), especially for trucks that are corridor, and will have to consider it in travelling over long distance. further detail. Research being carried out by the University of Toronto is suggesting to convert some of the lanes on Highway 401 for exclusive truck use. • Highway 124, and Mayfield Road are • Jurisdictional issues will be reviewed under local jurisdiction. However, if these following completion of the study roads are to take on Provincial function to (Stage 1 EA process). At the moment, move goods and services, then they should the study is looking at a system be under the jurisdiction of the Province. requirement perspective and finding a planning solution. It is possible that the Province may potentially take up the responsibility of these roadways as required. • Highway 124 and Mayfield Road are being • Comments noted used for a lot of Regional services (e.g. aggregate industries), but they are being repaired using the municipality’s budget. • We are willing to work with the Province • Comments noted. to minimize impact to the agricultural industries.

COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE

Councillor • It appears that a lot of work is still to be • Comments noted. Groves done before a corridor can be identified. Personally, I think it will be a good idea to use rail to move goods and services and take the trucks off the road. • The extension of Highway 427 is currently • Under the current Highway 427 underway and the proposed extension is to Extension Study, the proposed terminate at Major Mackenzie Drive. Will extension of Highway 427 is mandated Highway 427 be extended beyond Major to terminate at Major Mackenzie Mackenzie Drive in the future? Drive. As part of the GTA West Study, however, we are looking at the potential to extend Highway 427 to beyond Major Mackenzie Drive. This is included (and as shown) in the new corridor alternatives with a red arrow indicating a potential connection to the new corridor. • In past presentations, you made reference • There are 10 pinch points (Areas of to a number of pinch point within the study Interest) within the Preliminary Study area. How many of those are within the Area; of which 4 are within the Region study area? of Peel – Bolton, Brampton northeast quadrant, Mayfield west, and BramWest. Councillor • I would like a copy of the PowerPoint • This can be provided. Paterak presentation with full size maps of the alternatives. • Some of the alternatives suggest the • Comments noted. widening of non-Provincial roadways such as Highway 24, which have numerous direct driveway accesses. Should this type of road be widened from 2 to 4 lanes, it will be difficult for drivers to turn in and out of the driveways. Therefore, they should be widened to 5 lanes to allow for a center turn lane. This is especially true for roads between Erin and Guelph. • I understand that some of the comments • One of the alternatives is to widen (from today) may be outside the scope of Regional Road 24/124 to Cambridge. the current GTA West Study; however, the Project Team should take note of these comments, for example, extending the transportation network connection to Cambridge (i.e. outside of the Preliminary Study Area). • Is it possible to consider GPS tax scheme • Comment noted. for trucks where a road toll is collected based on different time of the day and different road segment / congestion level? Councillor • Regarding the alternative for grade • There will unlikely be a change in DeBoer separation, is there going to be a change in policy as a result of this study. The the threshold for grade separation warrant warrant for grade separation will be or will there be a change in policy to recommended based on need. COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE mandate the construction of grade separation on new roads / road improvements? • The alternatives are not complete, for • MTO staff have advised on needs to example, Highway 427 will terminate at a the policy makers. local road and let traffic infiltrate into local roads instead of extending north to Highway 9. The municipality has to pay for the road (maintenance) for carrying Provincial services. [Mayor Morrison added that in a meeting with the Minister of Transportation, it was stated that Highway 427 will not be extended into the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Greenbelt]. Councillor • In Alternative 3-2, is it proposing that • This is one of the many concepts being Beffort Highway 9 be widened – this is located considered. The reason why it is outside of the study area. called the “Preliminary Study Area” is that this will give us flexibility should a solution, which will sufficiently address the problems and opportunities, be identified outside of the study area. The alternatives are not confined to within the Preliminary Study Area. • The simple solution is to have trucks to • Comments noted. and from Alliston to use the 400 series Highways and not local roads, e.g. Highway 9. • The Caledon PIC on Dec. 8/09 is in • Logistically it is difficult to change the conflict with the Council meeting (budget). date (publication in the newspapers Can the PIC be moved to Dec. 9/09 and notification to various stakeholders.)

[Mayor Morrison noted that PICs being held on other dates are located relatively close to Caledon].

[Councillor Payne suggested that Council meeting be moved from Dec. 8 to Dec. 9 – Caledon Clerk will look at the possibility of doing so]. Mayor • If some of the Regional Roads are being • Comments noted. Morrison identified as future major east-west connection, then there is a need (for the Ministry) to get involve as soon as possible. For example, Mayfield Road should have controlled access if it is to function as a connection on a Provincial level. However, subdivision approvals from the Region at the moment have not taken into consideration the need for controlled access.

GTA West Corridor Planning and EA Study

Summary of Presentation to Wellington County Council November 23, 2009 Council Chamber, Wellington County, 10:00 am – 10:30 am

ATTENDEES:

Warden Joanne Ross-Zuj C.A.O. Scott Wilson

Towns Erin Mayor Rod Finnie Minto Mayor David Anderson

Townships Mapleton Mayor John Green Wellington North Mayor Mike Broomhead Guelph / Eramosa Mayor Chris White Puslinch Mayor Brad Whitcombe

County Ward Councillors County Ward 1 Mark MacKenzie County Ward 2 Carl Hall County Ward 3 Walter Trachsel County Ward 4 Lynda White County Ward 5 Jean Innes County Ward 6 Robert Wilson County Ward 7 Barb McKay County Ward 8 Gordon Tosh County Ward 9 Lou Maieron

County Staff County Engineer Gord Ough Director, Planning Gary Cousins and Development

4 members of the Media were present.

MTO Jin Wang, Will Mackenzie Consultant Neil Ahmed, Catherine Christiani

NOTES:

In a 15-minute PowerPoint presentation, Jin and Neil provided an overview of the progress of the GTA West Study. Following the presentation, there was an approximately 5-minute period of questions and comments by members of the Council. The following summarizes key comments by the Councillors and responses by Neil.

Copies of the presentation were provided to the Clerk’s Department for distribution to the Councillors and media prior to the presentation.

QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE • The Group 4 alternatives have the potential to • Comment noted. impact the Town of Erin negatively by dividing the Town into two; however there could also be benefits to having a new corridor in the area if there is access. If a new QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE corridor is proposed by the Project Team, all efforts should be made to mitigate any negative impacts it could have on the local community.

• The Project Team discussed increasing airport • The Hamilton Airport is within the study capacity for goods movement however no area of another MTO study – the Niagara mention of Hamilton Airport has been made. to GTA Corridor Study (NGTA). Increased goods movement capacity at Hamilton Airport is being looked at as a part of that study. • The GTA West Project Team is also researching increased goods movement capacity at the Waterloo Airport.

• All of the Group 4 alternatives will require • Comment noted. major improvements to Highway 6.

• What opportunities will concerned residents • The public can provide input at the have to provide input into the evaluation of upcoming third round of Public the alternatives presented? Information Centres. • As outlined in the presentation, numerous opportunities for input have been provided throughout the study through advisory groups and public meetings. County staff (Gord Ough and Garry Cousins) have been involved in the Municipal Advisory Group, and David Graham from Guelph is on the Community Advisory Group.

• Rural/county roads aren’t used by inter- • Comment noted. The Project Team will regional traffic due to the presence of stop consider rural/county roads for inter- signs, traffic lights and other traffic calming regional traffic flow. mechanisms that slow traffic flow. This forces inter-regional traffic trips onto 400 Series Highways. The Project Team should consider converting certain rural/country roads for free-flow traffic.

The Warden thanked Jin and Neil for their presentation and indicated that Council looks forward to subsequent updates.

GTA West Corridor Planning and EA Study

Summary of Presentation to Peel Council – General Committee December 3, 2009 Council Chamber, Region of Peel, 9:30 am – 10:30 am

ATTENDES: Regional Chair Emil Klob Deputy Regional Clerk Jeff Payne

Caledon Mayor Marolyn Morrison Regional Councillors Richard Paterak (Ward 1) Allan Thompson (Ward 2) Annette Groves (Ward 5)

Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell Regional Councillors Grant Gibson (Wards 1 & 5) Gael Miles (Wards 7 & 8) Elaine Moore (Wards 1 & 5) John Sprovieri (Wards 9 & 10) John Sanderson (Wards 3 & 4)

Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion Regional Councillors George Carlson (Ward 11) Carmen Corbasson (Ward 1) Frank Dale (Ward 4) Nando Iannicca (Ward 7) Maja Prentice (Ward 3) Katie Mahoney (Ward 8)

Staff Damian (Peel), Tom AppaRao (Peel), Henrik Zbogar (Brampton)

Media Bill Rea (Simcoe-York Group of Newspapers, ie. King Township Sentinel, New Tecumseth Times, Caledon Citizen, Innisfil Scope)

MTO Jin Wang Consultant Neil Ahmed, Catherine Christiani

NOTES:

Agenda Item D1

In a 15-minute PowerPoint presentation, Jin and Neil provided an overview of the progress of the GTA West Study. Following the presentation, there was an approximately 25-minute period of questions and comments by members of Committee. The following summarizes key comments by Council and the corresponding responses by Jin and Neil.

Copies of the presentation were provided to the Clerks Department for distribution to Council prior to the presentation.

COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE City of • The GTA West Corridor EA • Comments noted. Mississauga Study is an important study. • There is no financial component to the study Mayor Hazel Transportation solutions are outcomes at this time. The study is an EA study, McCallion needed in the study area. thus the need for improvements must first be • The Metrolinx RTP is established. Funding and implementation will be addressing transit in the area based on the priority setting of the government. however a road plan is also needed. • The Metrolinx RTP is suffering from a $30 billion shortfall. Has the province developed a financial plan for the GTA West Corridor study? Will the upcoming study reports address this? • What will happen if a • The Project Team has developed a process to development application is deal with potential development issues. All local approved by a municipality municipalities in the Preliminary Study Area that interferes with the received a letter requesting that they notify the location of a potential future Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing of corridor? development applications which meet certain criteria. If the application is of concern, the Project Team will work with the municipality to address the application. City of • In the presentation, it was • There are 4 regions within the Preliminary Study Brampton mentioned that Public Area and the Project Team is holding one PIC in Mayor Susan Information Centres (PIC) each region. Fennell will be held throughout the • During previous rounds of PICs, the Project study area. Is a public Team held 2 public meetings in Peel (Brampton meeting being held in and Caledon) however due to low interest, the Brampton? Brampton PIC was consolidated into the Caledon PIC. This decision was discussed with Brampton staff. • The Project Team is invited • Request noted. A presentation to council will be to present a study update arranged. presentation to Brampton City Council. • The Project Team has • Comments noted. conducted a thorough analysis. • Concerned about the cost of the proposed alternatives. The expectation is that there will be funding available when it is needed. • Brampton had to contribute to the building of Highway 410 in order to accelerate its construction. • Are interested in using some of the slides presented at a speaking engagement in Washington, DC regarding

COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE inland port trucking. Town of • The public are willing to pay • Comments noted. Caledon in order to build needed Regional infrastructure. Councillor Allan • The easy decision isn’t Thompson always the best decision. The (Ward 2) Project Team shouldn’t be hesitant to propose potentially unpopular options, such as a new corridor that crosses the Niagara Escarpment, if it is the right thing to do. • A new road is needed now. Group alternatives 4-4 and 4- 5 are good options, but only if they are built now. • The trucking industry doesn’t have enough adequate supporting infrastructure. • A new corridor would provide the opportunity for other infrastructure to be built, such as much-needed high speed internet. • Further written comments on the study will be provided by Councillor Thompson. • The fourth round of PICs should have more specific details. • The dates for the PICs have • The PICs will be held on the dates given, been given, but not the between 4:00 and 8:00 pm. times. When will the PICs be held? City of • The Niagara Escarpment and • Comment noted. Brampton Greenbelt are treated as Regional though they are untouchable, Councillor John however sacrifices often Sprovieri need to be made in order to (Wards 9 & 10) have appropriate infrastructure. • Why is Mayfield Rd being • From a functional point of view, Mayfield Rd looked at by the Project provided the location, connections and necessary Team? The Region has capacity to relieve growth. This is why it was planned improvements for considered a candidate for potential widening. the road. Is the Province • Uploading regional roads is not the focus of the interested in making the road current study. a provincial corridor? • Mayfield Rd is already a burdened road. The current improvements are meant to

COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE improve its regional function. If it is expected to serve a provincial function, it should be uploaded. City of • Support Mayor Fennell and • Comment noted. Mississauga Councillor Sprovieri’s Mayor Hazel positions. McCallion • Municipal roads are often over burdened. It is hoped that the study will look at the overall effect the alternatives will have on local roads.

GTA West Corridor Planning and EA Study

Summary of Presentation to Brampton City Council January 27, 2010 Council Chamber, 4th Floor, City of Brampton, 1:00pm – 2:30pm

ATTENDEES:

Council Mayor S. Fennell Regional Councillor G. Gibson, Wards 1 and 5 Regional Councillor E. Moore, Wards 1 and 5 Regional Councillor P. Palleschi, Wards 2 and 6 Regional Councillor J. Sanderson, Wards 3 and 4 Regional Councillor G. Miles, Wards 7 and 8 Regional Councillor J. Sprovieri, Wards 9 and 10 City Councillor J. Hutton, Wards 2 and 6 City Councillor B. Callahan, Wards 3 and 4 City Councillor S. Hames, Wards 7 and 8 City Councillor V. Dhillon, Wards 9 and 10

Staff J. Corbett, Commissioner of Planning, Design and Development M. Lewis, Commissioner of Finance and Treasurer J. Lowery, Commissioner of Community Services T. Mulligan, Commissioner of Works and Transportation J. Patteson, Commissioner of Buildings and Property Management K. Zammit, Commissioner of Corporate Services D. Cutajar, Commissioner of Economic Development and Communications A. MacDonald, Fire Chief, Fire and Emergency Services P. Fay, City Clerk, Corporate Services D. Dubenofsky, City Manager

MTO Jin Wang, Frank Pravitz Consultant Neil Ahmed, Catherine Christiani

NOTES:

Agenda Item E6

In a 12-minute PowerPoint presentation using several of the slides in the full package, Jin and Neil provided an overview of the progress of the GTA West Study. Following the presentation, there was an approximately 25-minute period of questions and comments by members of Council. The following summarizes key comments by Council and the corresponding responses by Jin and Neil.

Copies of the full presentation were provided to the Clerks Department for distribution to Council prior to the presentation.

COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE P. Palleschi, • The Halton-Peel Boundary • Comment noted. Wards 2 and 6 Area Study (HP-BATS) should be included in the GTA West Study and the end recommendations of the HP-BATS study should not be changed by GTA West. COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE • The project team has not • The GTA West Project Team has involved the appropriately consulted with City of Brampton through the Municipal the City of Brampton. Advisory Group. • A Public Information Centre (PIC) should be held in Brampton. Brampton citizens will be interested in any proposed north-south linkages. • Group 4-2 runs through the • MTO and the GTA West Project Team are aware BramWest Secondary Plan of the BramWest Secondary Plan. A letter was Area. Is the MTO aware of sent to the developer on January 26, 2010 in the BramWest Secondary response to comments submitted by a BramWest Plan Area? Representatives development group stating that the subject lands from MTO have not been will not be affected by the GTA West Study. A involved at any recent copy of this letter will be forwarded to the City meetings. of Brampton. B. Callahan, • Page 16 of the presentation • The maximum amount of lanes allowed on Wards 3 and 4 proposes to, “Widen 407ETR is outlined in a contract between MTO provincial highways and the owners of 407ETR. The 407 widening is (Highway 401, 410, 427, one alternative and the maximum amount of 400) and 407ETR”. Who lanes in the agreement will not be enough to owns the 407ETR right-of- accommodate the transportation capacity needs way and can it be widened in the area by 2031. MTO would need to by MTO? renegotiate this contract in order to achieve the widenings. • We will look into the right-of-way ownership information and relay it to the Councillor. • High speed rail needs to be • Comments noted. developed within/adjacent to • The feasibility of all options will be assessed the 407ETR right-of-way. before PIC #4. • People are captive to the high rates of 407ETR. J. Hutton, Wards • High speed rail, like that in • Comment noted. 2 and 6 Japan, is needed here. • Is the point of this study to • The purpose of the GTA West EA Study is based build Highway 413? What is on the transportation policy direction outlined in the status of Highway 413? the province’s Growth Plan. Rumors of a potential • The concept of Hwy 413 has no provincial Highway 413 through status, it is not identified in the Growth Plan and Caledon between Highway there is no formal process or initiative to pursue 427 and 410 have been it. around for over 10 years. E. Moore, • What is the timeline for the • Stage 1 of the GTA West EA Study will be Wards 1 and 5 study? When will the completed within 2010. The final Transportation Transportation Development Development Strategy will be presented at PIC Strategy be completed? #4 which will be held before or after the summer. Mayor Fennell • It should be made clearer • Comments noted. that the study is being undertaken by the provincial government. The Government of Ontario logo should be prominently COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS/COMMENTS RESPONSE displayed on all study materials. • The City of Brampton is committed to building compact communities. City initiatives such as this should be reflected within the final GTA West plan. • The final transportation development strategy will be expensive and funding mechanism’s to finance the plan should be looked into. • The burden to pay for the plan shouldn’t be on local property taxes. • A copy of the presentation will be given to City staff for review and a report should be presented to Council Planning Committee. • The possibility of holding a Town Hall Meeting with regards to this project will also be discussed at Council Committee, to include MTO but also other provincial ministries.

APPENDIX M YORK REGION PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE LETTER

November 25, 2009

Mr. Denis Kelly Regional Clerk Region of York Corporate Services Department 17250 Yonge Street, 4th Floor York Region Administrative Building Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z1

RE: GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study Progress Update Presentation

Due to a scheduling conflict, York Region staff has requested that a planned presentation by the GTA West Corridor Environmental Assessment Study Progress Update delegation at the December 2, 2009 York Region Planning and Development Services Committee instead be received as a communication item. This request is also based on the understanding that another opportunity will be available later for the Ministry of Transportation to present the recommended transportation development strategy to this same Committee.

Please find attached a copy of the material that was to be presented. Please distribute to all Committee Members, along with a copy of this letter.

Should you require further information or have any questions with regards to the material attached, please contact Mr. Jin Wang, Project Coordinator with the Ministry of Transportation, at 905-704-2117, or Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng., the Consultant Project Manager with McCormick Rankin Corporation, at 905-823-8500.

Thank you for your interest in this important study.

Sincerely,

______Mr. Jin Wang Mr. Neil Ahmed, P. Eng. Project Coordinator Consultant Project Manager Provincial and Environmental Planning Office McCormick Rankin Corporation Ontario Ministry of Transportation

Attach. cc: Steve Mota, Region of York Loy Cheah, Region of York

GTAGTA WESTWEST CORRIDORCORRIDOR PLANNINGPLANNING ANDAND EAEA STUDYSTUDY--STAGESTAGE 11

StudyStudy UpdateUpdate

York Region NOVEMBER 2009

1 PolicyPolicy ContextContext

• Growth Plan • Greenbelt Plan • Niagara Escarpment Plan • Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan • Provincial Policy Statement • Municipal Official Plans

2 FutureFuture GrowthGrowth

There will be significant growth • GGH population from 7.8 to 11.5 million by 2031 • GGH employment from 3.8 to 5.6 million jobs by 2031 • Transportation problems expected to become more significant and not easily addressed

We must plan for the future • Growth will lead to more commuter, tourism and freight trips • Planning now is required to accommodate additional trips • A multi-modal approach is most appropriate Distribution of Population for the GGH Distribution of Employment for the GGH 2001-2031 2001-2031

2000 1000

1500

2031 Population Employment 2031 1000 500 (in thousands) (in2021 thousands) 2021 2011 2011 500 2001 2001

0 0 Region of York Region of Peel Region of City of Guelph/ Region of York Region of Peel Region of City of Guelph/ Halton County of Halton County of Wellington Wellington 3 StudyStudy PurposePurpose

To proactively plan for future transportation needs by:

• Examining long-term transportation problems and opportunities to the year 2031 • Considering options to provide better linkages between Urban Growth Centres in the GTA West Corridor Preliminary Study Area as identified in the Growth Plan, including: ¾ Downtown Guelph ¾ Downtown Milton ¾ Brampton City Centre ¾ Vaughan Corporate Centre

4 OverallOverall StudyStudy ProcessProcess

2007 We are Here 2010

Transportation Terms of Transportation Problems & Alternatives Reference Development Strategy Opportunities

PIC 1 PIC 2 PIC 3 PIC 4

5 Foundation for Developing & Assessing Transportation Alternatives

This study built on many initiatives by Metrolinx/GO Transit, MTO and municipalities

6 Three-Stage Process for Developing and Assessing Alternatives

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3

Examination and Examination and Examination and Analysis of Group of Analysis of Analysis of Individual Modal Improvement Preliminary Planning Alternatives Alternatives Alternatives

Transportation Analysis Demand Air Management (TDM) • To what extent does the Group of Modal Transportation Improvement Systems Freight Rail Alternatives meet the Management (TSM) transportation objectives of this study?

Transit Intermodal • High level assessment of Environmental, Economic & Community factors. Marine Roads & Highways

7 Consultation

The Creative Process The Project Teams have conducted extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders to receive ideas on possible alternatives. Consultation has included:

Ontario Growth Secretariat Conservation Authorities Workshops Ontario Motor Transportation Service Coach Association Providers (CN, CP, RAAG Meetings Metrolinx, GO Transit) Peel Region Comments from Public Information Centres #1 & #2

Halton Transportation CAG Meetings Municipal Workshops (Halton, Peel, York, Advisory Committee Guelph-Wellington) Think Tank Session for NGTA and GTA West Studies RAAG Meetings Regional Council / Committee NGTA & GTA West Agency Meetings Workshop Ontario Trucking Mississaugas of the Halton Region Association New Credit

York Region County of MAG Meetings Wellington

8 Individual Mode Alternatives

Transit

• Local transit (expand AcceleRide, rapid transit on freeways and major arterial TDM/TSM roads), • BRT (links between Urban Growth Centres) • Roadway and TSM / TDM expansion including Variable • Rail Expansion including GO service (new service between Urban Growth Centres, Message Signs to notify motorists of freeway conditions service extension between Milton/Cambridge, Guelph/Waterloo) • Lane Control Signs (i.e., speed harmonization) • Regional rail service (i.e. new service from Bolton to Union Station and expansion • Ramp Metering Systems along Georgetown corridor) • Incident Management, employee sponsored and • Inter-regional Transit Hubs: Locations where transit and GO connect - expand provincial TDM programs bike and car parking lots • Improved Transit/Rail Services including increased service frequency, fare integration, bus lanes on shoulders during peak periods, improved access to Intermodal stations and incorporation of active transportation. • Introduce Planning Policies to Promote Nodal (mixed use) Developments; • Provide Choice and Opportunity to Benefit from Strengths of Each Mode; • Understand Requirements and Match with Logistics and Economic Realities; Freight Rail • Logistics Hubs near Airports/ Ports/ Rail Yards/Industrial Parks;

• Grade separate road and rail (i.e. identify bottleneck location Air • National policy targets for modal shift onto rail • Logistics Hubs near Airports/ Ports/ Rail Yards/Industrial Parks; • Changes to rail grade separation regulations • Improvements to “Free Trade Zone” Systems; • Standardize carrying requirements across jurisdictions • Improve Integration of Rail and Air Transportation Modes; • Improve integration of rail and air transportation modes • High Speed Rail link between Union Station-Toronto Pearson- • Utilize short haul routes Kitchener/Waterloo; • Various CN and CP Initiatives • Sixth Runway at Toronto Pearson.

Marine • Logistics Hubs near Airports/ Ports/ Rail Yards/Industrial Parks; • Changes to Ballast Water Regulations; • Formal Distribution Network to/from Montreal; 9 Individual Mode Alternatives

• High level assessment was carried out for single mode transportation alternatives ¾ Transit ¾ TDM / TSM ¾ Rail (Freight Rail) ¾ Intermodal ¾ Air ¾ Marine

• No single mode alternative is able to fully address all of the transportation problems and opportunities

• Elements of individual mode alternatives are carried forward to form Groups of Modal Improvement Alternatives

10 GroupsGroups ofof ModalModal ImprovementImprovement AlternativesAlternatives

11 GroupGroup 1:1: OptimizeOptimize ExistingExisting NetworkNetwork The following individual ideas form the basis for Group #1:

• Improved access to transit stations for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists • Improved integration of active transportation opportunities and transit (e.g. secure storage facilities at transit stations, bicycle storage on transit vehicles, etc) • Expanded use of roadway shoulders during peak travel periods • Improved scheduling and fare integration between inter-regional and local transit providers Strategies • Use of real time trip planning information technologies for transit users and drivers • Increased / improved transit service frequency Metrolinx RTP & GOMetrolinx RTP 2020

• Speed harmonization – reduced speeds during times of congestion facilitate improved traffic flow (e.g. lane control signs) • TDM programs – provincial co-ordination and employer sponsorship of programs improves the effectiveness of TDM initiatives (e.g. Smart Commute) • Ramp metering systems – regulated auto access to sections of highway reducing local congestion • Transit / HOV bypass locations – bypass lanes using metered ramps and direct ramp access to transit

Strategies stations/carpool lots for HOV and transit vehicles • Incident management and detection – improved detection and response to emergencies/incidents for GTAW Study Team Team GTAW Study more timely clearance • Operational improvements at localized bottlenecks to ease traffic flow

12 GroupGroup 1:1: OptimizeOptimize ExistingExisting NetworkNetwork

Outcome of Group 1 High Level Assessment:

•Expected benefits ¾ Trip reduction ¾ TDM and TSM have the greatest impact on urban travel patterns in urban centres ¾ Potential for inter-regional auto travel to decline by 4% in the GTA West Preliminary Study Area ¾ Potential for maximized efficiency of the transportation system ¾ Potential for benefits to air quality and climate change through trip reduction and mode shifts ¾ Potential health benefits with increased active transportation (walking, cycling)

•Does not fully address Problems & Opportunities on its own

•Group 1 initiatives are carried forward into Group 2

13 Group 2: New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure Group #2 Alternatives include Group #1 initiatives plus new / improved non-roadway infrastructure (e.g. related to transit, rail and air). Examples of Group #2 initiatives:

• More buses and stations and dedicated bus lanes for York VIVA BRT Regional Rail Service • Rapid transit line for Finch West from Yonge Subway Line to Highway - Bolton from Union Station 27 and Humber College and east to Don Mills Station - Expansion of the Georgetown north corridor (Downtown Brampton / • York VIVA improvement in West Vaughan Area Milton) • 7 day GO Bus service between Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge to Milton and Square One Mississauga Bus Terminal - Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station • Additional expanded and improved parking facilities at transit stations - Service extension from Milton to Cambridge • New bus storage in Streetsville and Aberfoyle - Service extension from Georgetown to Kitchener • Milton Corridor expansion • Feasibility Study on Bolton to Union Station rail line Express Rail • Other Metrolinx RTP and GO 2020 Strategy initiatives (See display 2: - Richmond Hill / Langstaff Gateway to Union Station Many Improvements have already been planned) - Downtown Brampton to Union Station • Freight Rail, Air and Marine initiatives to be pursued by others (see -Brampton Züm display 4: Individual Mode Alternatives) - Downtown Brampton to Peel-York Boundary Rapid Transit - Downtown Brampton to Union Station

Strategies - Steeles area (Lisgar GO to Highway 427) - Highway 427 (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Queen Street) - Hurontario (Port Credit to Downtown Brampton) Metrolinx RTP & GOMetrolinx RTP 2020 - 407ETR (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Highway 427) - Finch Ave. West (Toronto Pearson International Airport to Finch Station) - Highway 10 (Mayfield West to Downtown Brampton) - Highway 7 (Peel-York boundary to Locust Hill/Markham) - 407ETR (Halton to Durham) - Trafalgar/Main (Downtown Milton to 407ETR) •Expanded inter-regional GO Bus routes feeding GO Rail station •Inter-regional transit hubs where local transit and GO Transit connect (i.e. Guelph, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Milton, Brampton) Strategies •New bus rapid transit links between Urban Growth Centres (Downtown Brampton, Downtown Milton, Vaughan Corporate Centre, Downtown Guelph) 14 GTAW Study Team Team GTAW Study Group 2: Includes New/Improved Non-Road Infrastructure

Outcome of Group 2 High Level Assessment: •Expected benefits ¾ Improved mode choice for movement of people and goods ¾ Improved potential for mode shift from auto/truck travel to other modes (transit/rail/air) ¾ Potential for benefits to air quality and climate change and decreased congestion through trip reduction and mode shift ¾ Potential shift of 10% of long distance truck traffic (> 500km) to alternative modes if infrastructure and policy support is provided

•Does not fully address Problems & Opportunities ¾ Serious roadway congestion on Highways 401, 400, 427 and 410 forecast to increase substantially ¾ Traffic congestion, accidents, pollution and other delays cost businesses and people time and money and other negative impacts •Groups 1 & 2 initiatives are carried forward into Groups 3 & 4

15 GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

• Group 3 alternatives include elements from Groups 1 and 2 ¾ Metrolinx RTP ¾ GO 2020 strategies ¾ TDM programs ¾ Transit supportive corridors between urban growth centres

• Widened provincial highways (Highway 401, 410, 427, 400) and 407ETR

WITH OR WITHOUT

• Widened regional/county roads

This alternative builds on initiatives by Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 16 Group 3: Includes Widened / Improved Existing Roads Alternative 3-1

This alternative builds on initiatives by Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 17 Group 3: Includes Widened / Improved Existing Roads Alternative 3-2

Alternative 3-3

This alternative builds on initiatives by Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 18 GroupGroup 3:3: IncludesIncludes WidenedWidened // ImprovedImproved ExistingExisting RoadsRoads

Outcome of Group 3 High Level Assessment:

• Generally addresses transportation service / congestion issues

• Limited capacity to accommodate growth beyond 2031

• Does not provide adequate redundancy and reliability

• Has potential for community impacts

• Carried forward for further consideration

19 Group 4: Includes New Transportation Corridor

• Group 4 alternatives include elements from Groups 1, 2 and 3 ¾ Metrolinx RTP ¾ GO 2020 strategies ¾ TDM programs ¾ New bus rapid transit link between urban growth centres

• New corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 410, with possible extension to Highway 401 east or west of Milton

• New corridor from Highway 400 to Highway 6 north or south of Georgetown and Guelph

This alternative builds on initiatives by Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities 20 Group 4: Includes New Transportation Corridor Alternative 4-1

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 21 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor

This alternative includes initiatives by others including Metrolinx, MTO and municipalities

The representative alternative shown here is intended to show the end points and potential connections to the transportation network. Specific route alternatives, the detailed effects (advantages and disadvantages) of these 22 alternatives, as well as the selection of the Preferred Alternative(s), are subject to subsequent steps of the EA GroupGroup 4:4: IncludesIncludes NewNew TransportationTransportation CorridorCorridor

Outcome of Group 4 High Level Assessment:

• Generally addresses: ¾ transportation service / congestion issues, ¾ longer term capacity requirement, ¾ accessibility to employment centres, ¾ redundancy and ¾ reliability

• Has potential for further environmental impacts

• Carried forward for further consideration

23 UpcomingUpcoming ConsultationConsultation

• GTA West Public Information Centre #3

¾ November 30th – Guelph PIC, River Run Centre

¾ December 3rd – Georgetown PIC, Mold Master Sportsplex

¾ December 8th – Caledon PIC, Brampton Fairgrounds

¾ December 10th – Woodbridge PIC, Le Jardin Conference & Events Centre

24 WhatWhat’’ss NextNext

• Following PIC #3 evaluations will be completed using a range of factors and criteria to determine which alternatives should be carried forward into Preliminary Planning. • During preliminary planning the alternatives carried forward will be considered in the following process

EVALUATE GENERATE ASSESS EVALUATE AND SELECT

Present Draft Transportation Development Strategy

APPENDIX N FIRST NATIONS PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #2 NOTIFICATION MATERIALS